Please note that this website has a UK government accesskeys system.
Most National Health Service (NHS) treatment is free but there can be charges for some things. You may be able to get help with NHS health costs if for example you're on a low income.
You may be able to get help with health costs like:
You may get help with the cost of charges if at least one of the following applies.
You are getting or are included in an award of:
You may also get help with the cost of charges if:
If none of the above apply and you're on a low income you may be able to get help through the NHS Low Income Scheme.
The amount of help you get will depend on the amount of income you have. You may not be entitled to any help if your savings are above the limits shown below.
You can't get help if:
You'll need to complete form HC1 from a Jobcentre Plus office or NHS hospital. You may also be able to get an HC1 from your doctor, dentist or optician.
You can also get an HC1 form by contacting the Health Cost advice line on 0845 850 1166 or, if you live in Scotland, by phoning 0131 275 6386.
Your entitlement to health cost benefits may stop if your circumstances change, for example you:
Please contact the Health Cost advice line on 0845 850 1166 to check your entitlement.
You may find it cheaper to buy a Prepayment Certificate (PPC). This is if you will have to pay for four or more prescription items in three months, or more than 14 items in 12 months.
To get more information, to apply or check the cost of a PPC please visit the NHS Business Services Authority website. Or contact the PPC advice line on 0845 850 0030.
PPCs are not available in Scotland.
If you want more information about NHS charges in England, Scotland and Wales, download a booklet HC11 from the Department of Health website. If you live in Scotland, you can download the documents HCS1 and HCS2 from the Scottish Government Website.
If you need more advice about getting help with health costs, contact the Health Cost advice line on 0845 850 1166. You can also contact your local Citizens Advice Bureau (CAB).