In this Article:
01: Free prescriptions based on age and health02: How do I get a medical exemption certificate?03: Free prescriptions based on income04: What if I’m not eligible for free prescriptions but still need help?*05: How much could an NHS PPC save me?*Free prescriptions based on age and health
Medical and age-based exemptions are available for those who:
are under 16 years of age
are 16-18 and in full-time education
are aged 60 and over (this is currently under review and could soon be 66)
are pregnant or have given birth in the last 12 months
have a valid medical exemption certificate due to a specified health condition such as cancer or diabetes
receive inpatient treatment at an NHS hospital
rely on support from a care giver to leave the house and hold a valid medical exemption certificate
have a war pension exemption certificate
How do I get a medical exemption certificate?
A medical exemption certificate can be applied for using a form signed by your doctor. Once approved, the certificate will be valid for five years. You can then apply to renew it. If you already have a certificate and want to check how long it’s valid for, you can use this NHS tool. For expectant and new mums, a maternity exemption certificate can be obtained through your GP, midwife, or health visitor.
Free prescriptions based on income
Those receiving existing financial support could also be eligible if they are awarded:
Universal Credit as an individual claimant with a net monthly income of below £435
Universal Credit and limited capability for work with a net monthly income of below £935
Universal Credit with a childcare component and a net monthly income of below £935
Income Support
Jobseeker’s Allowance
Pension Credit Guarantee
If you’re not sure whether you are eligible, you can use the NHS eligibility checker to see if your circumstances mean you’re entitled to help with healthcare costs. If you are eligible for free NHS prescriptions and you're a current Pharmacy2U patient, this video shows you how to easily update your exemption in your account dashboard.
What if I’m not eligible for free prescriptions but still need help?*
If your circumstances don’t qualify you for help with your prescription costs, an NHS Prescription Prepayment Certificate (PPC) could save you money. You can buy a certificate to cover three months or one year so you can choose the option that best suits you. A three-month PPC costs £31.25 and a 12-month certificate costs £111.60 If you collected two prescriptions per month for one year, the cost would total £231.60. A PPC in this instance would save you £120 over 12 months.
How much could an NHS PPC save me?*
*All figures correct as of financial year 2023-2024
Medications prescribed monthly | Savings with a 12 month PPC | Savings with a 3 month PPC |
---|---|---|
2 | £120+ per year | £26+ in 3 months |
3 | £235+ per year | £55+ in 3 months |
4 | £351+ per year | £84+ in 3 months |