A practical guide to saving money and support with prescription costs

Content originally from Mid and South Essex Integrated Care System

Living with any long-term health condition can bring unique challenges, both physically, mentally and financially.  The costs of medications, treatments and having to take time off work can all take its toll. 

But the good news is that with a bit of planning there are some opportunities to save a bit of money.

1. Save money on prescriptions

Did you know that…

• If you live with a long-term condition you may be able to save money on your prescriptions
• A prescription prepayment certificate will save you money if you pay for more than 3 items in 3 months, or 11 items in 12 months.
• If you are on a low income, you could also be entitled to help with NHS costs or free prescriptions, depending on your circumstances. You can check your eligibility by using the eligibility checker, it only takes a few minutes.

Not only are individuals with long-term conditions eligible for support with prescription costs, but anyone who requires more than three prescribed items within a three-month period or 11 items over a year could also make significant savings through a Prescription Cost Certificate (PCC). Additional support is available for those who are pregnant, have given birth within the last 12 months, or are undergoing Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT).

Maternity exemption certificates

A maternity exemption certificate entitles you to free NHS prescriptions and free NHS dental treatment while you are pregnant.

You’re entitled to a maternity exemption certificate if, at the time of your application, you are pregnant or have given birth in the last 12 months.

Speak to your midwife, doctor or health visitor. They’ll complete the application for you. They can do this as soon as they confirm that you’re pregnant.

HRT prescription prepayment certificate 

If you pay for NHS prescribed HRT medicine three or more times in 12 months, an HRT prescription prepayment certificate could save you money.

Each item on an NHS prescription usually costs £9.65. You can buy an HRT PPC for a one-off payment of £19.30 (the cost of two single items).

The HRT PPC covers an unlimited number of certain HRT medicines for 12 months, regardless of why they are prescribed.

Check to see if you are eligible for help with NHS prescription costs

2. Claim the benefits you’re entitled to

You might be entitled to claim some benefits.

These benefits aren’t means tested, so you could get them if your health needs are great enough, regardless of your income and savings:

• Attendance Allowance, if you’ve reached State Pension age.
• Disability Living Allowance, for a person aged under 16.
• Personal Independence Payment (PIP) if you have a long-term physical or mental condition or disability and have difficulty doing certain everyday tasks or getting around because if your condition. 

Some mobile phone providers also offer social tariffs for people that receive certain government benefits. 

If you have a health condition or are disabled you can find out more about the benefits and financial support available to you by clicking the link below

Find out more about benefits and financial support

3. Peace of mind in the event of a power cut

Power cuts don’t happen very often, but if you are reliant on medical equipment or anything else needing electricity to support your health and wellbeing, it can be a stressful and sometimes expensive trying to source alternatives.

If the electricity network is damaged or develops a fault, it’s the UK Power Networks’ job to get your power back on. If you live in the south east or east of England, then being on the priority services register will ensure you will receive extra support if you experience a power cut. They work with other utility companies to provide extra support to customers in vulnerable circumstances.

Who can sign up? You can register if you (or someone in your household):

1. relies on medical equipment.
2. have refrigerated medicines.
3. have a serious or chronic illness.
4. have a disability.
5. is living with dementia.
6. are of pensionable age.
7. have children under the age of 5 in your household.
8. have mental health difficulties.

Find out how to sign up to the priority register

You can also visit a dedicated webpage for more information and key resources both nationally and locally to help you navigate financial challenges.

Please do share this information with anyone who you feel will benefit from it.