Prescription savings for people on low incomes or with long-term conditions

Advice and Information - 23 October 2023

Patients with long-term conditions or on a low income could save money on their prescriptions.
NHS graphic - people with long-term conditions like asthma could save money on their prescriptions

People living in the most deprived parts of England receive significantly more prescription items than those living in less deprived areas.

A Healthwatch poll also found that one in 10 (10%) people have avoided taking up one or more NHS prescriptions because of the cost, due to the cost-of-living crisis.

Long-term conditions

If you are on a low income, or pay for more than three prescription items in three months, or 11 items in 12 months, you could save money on your prescriptions.

This means that if you have a long-term condition - such as sickle cell, asthma, motor neurone disease, HIV, Parkinson's and multiple sclerosis - you may be able to save money.

A Prescription Prepayment Certificate covers all NHS prescriptions for a set pre-paid price, or spread over 10 direct debit payments.

If you are on a low income, you could be entitled to help with NHS costs or free prescriptions depending on your circumstances. Check if you’re eligible for help using the online eligibility checker. It only takes a few minutes.

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