A new scheme could see women across England save hundreds of pounds a year on their Hormone Replacement Therapy with a prepayment certificate.
What are Prepayment Certificates for Hormone Replacement Therapy?
The introduction of a Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) Prescription Prepayment Certificate by the Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC) will cap the cost of hormone replacement therapy at £20 a year.
According to DHSC, there has been a rapid increase in the number of women prescribed HRT in the past two years. Around 15% of women aged 45 to 64 in England are currently prescribed HRT. This is a jump from 11% just two years ago and is set to continue increasing.
The price cap will also increase access to HRT for women across England, as research shows that at least one in ten people are struggling to pay for prescriptions they rely on daily due to the rising cost of living
This new certificate will make HRT more accessible than ever, helping around 400,000 women save hundreds of pounds a year.
Steve Barclay, Health and Social Care Secretary
How will HRT certificates affect me?
Women experiencing menopause can now access cheaper HRT prescriptions through a prescription prepayment certificate (PPC).
With a HRT PPC, women across England who are prescribed HRT can access a year’s worth of treatment for as little as £19.30, the cost of two single prescriptions.
While the new HRT PPC covers most HRT prescriptions, it does not cover them all. If your HRT isn’t covered under the new PPC scheme, you may still be able to cover the cost with an NHS Prepayment Prescription Certificate.
An NHS PPC covers all NHS prescriptions so, if you receive prescriptions for anything other than HRT, you could also save money on these each month.
Making HRT more affordable will have a hugely beneficial impact on the lives of so many women. This prepayment certificate is a major step forward in prioritising the health and wellbeing of women.
Dame Lesley Regan, Women’s Health Ambassador
How do I get a prepayment certificate?
You can apply for your HRT PPC through the NHS Business Services Authority, which offers help with health costs.
Using their eligibility checker, you can check to see if you are entitled to free NHS prescriptions and support with other health costs.