NHS Prescription Cost to Rise in April 2018

How Much is The Price Increasing?

Have you heard the rumours that your NHS prescription cost is going to rise?  Well, the rumours were true and the change will be happening sooner than you probably thought.  Prices will be rising from £8.60 to £8.80 on 1^st April 2018.

Why is the NHS Prescription Cost Rising?

The government have stated that the extra 20p per each prescription is going to support the frontline of NHS services.  This cost is only effecting England and not the rest of the UK (who all abolished NHS prescription charges in 2011).  The new cost of £8.80 will mean the cost of NHS prescriptions has risen 19% since 2011, even though income increase has slowed.

Who is Exempt from Paying for Their NHS Prescription?

Nearly 90% of people in England are exempt from paying for their prescriptions.  This is because of the exemptions that are offered.  This includes; under 16’s, over 60’s (six out of ten prescriptions are prescribed to over-60’s), under 18’s in full-time education, pregnant women, people on welfare benefits and people with medical exemption certificates.

How to Keep Costs Down

Even though the cost of NHS prescriptions is rising, there are measures you can take to keep costs down.  If you have two or more prescriptions per month, you may wish to consider purchasing a pre-payment card.  These cost £104 and cover your prescription costs for a whole year.  If you get two prescriptions per month, this would cost you £212.40 per year, so will save your over £100.  You may also wish to consider buying certain types of medication over the counter rather than getting a prescription.

Where to Buy Your Prescriptions

Prescriptions can be collected from chemists, which often involve a lot of waiting around and travelling.  However, you can now pick up your prescriptions from digital pharmacies such as RXLive.  This online pharmacy allows you to order your prescription online and have your medication delivered directly to your home within 48 hours for free.