Prescriptions Charges and Exemptions
Exemptions
There are a few reasons you may be exempt from paying for your prescription medications for a full list please follow the link below
NHS - Who can get free prescriptions?
Medical Exemption
Ask your doctor for an FP92A form to apply for a medical exemption certificate.
Your GP will sign the form to confirm that your statement is correct. At your GP's discretion, a member of the practice who has access to your medical records can also sign the form.
Your certificate will be valid from 1 month before the date the NHS Business Services Authority receives the application form.
The MedEx lasts for 5 years and then needs to be renewed. You may receive a reminder that your certificate needs to be renewed.
If you do not receive a reminder, it's your responsibility to make sure it's renewed.
Check if your exemption certificate is valid
Free prescriptions for pregnant women
If you're pregnant or have had a baby in the past 12 months, you get free prescriptions if you have a valid maternity exemption certificate.
To apply for a maternity exemption certificate, contact your doctor, midwife or health visitor.
The certificate will last until 12 months after the expected date of birth of your baby.
If your baby's born early, you can continue to use your certificate until it expires.
If your baby is born late, you can apply for an extension.
If you apply after your baby is born, your certificate will last for 12 months from your baby's birth.
Find out more about maternity exemption certificates.
NHS charges
Most adults in England have to pay prescription charges.
Some items are always free, including contraceptives and medicines prescribed for hospital inpatients.
The current prescription charge is £9.65 per item.
A prescription prepayment certificate (PPC) could save you money on NHS prescription costs:
- a 3-month PPC costs £31.25
- a 12-month PPC is £111.60
If you will have to pay for four or more prescription items in three months, or more than 15 items in 12 months, you may find it cheaper to buy a PPC.
Find out how to save money with a PPC
Buy or Renew a PPC On-line
There is further information about prescription exemptions and fees on the NHS website