Save money on your HRT prescription
Since April 2023, women in England have been able to access HRT for their perimenopausal and menopausal symptoms at a reduced cost, by paying a one-off fee for an HRT prescription prepayment certificate (HRT PPC). The certificate was introduced to cut the cost of repeat HRT prescriptions and enable more women to access HRT.
In 2023-2024, 566,000 HRT PPCs were issued, and it’s estimated that without an HRT PPC, prescription charges could have cost patients approximately £20.2 million [1].
Research has shown that women living in more deprived areas are less likely to be prescribed HRT. There are many health benefits from taking HRT, including reducing future risk of heart disease and osteoporosis, which many perimenopausal and menopausal women are missing out on.
RELATED: What to expect when you start HRT
What is the HRT prescription prepayment certificate?
The HRT PPC is a bespoke certificate that provides women access to HRT at a reduced cost. Instead of paying for monthly prescriptions, you can access your HRT by paying a one-off annual charge of £19.80.
There is no limit to how many times the certificate can be used, or how many HRT items it can be used for, during the 12 months it is valid.
How can I apply?
You can apply for the certificate in person at a pharmacy registered to sell the certificates, or through the NHS Business Services Authority.
What does it cover?
The certificate is valid against a range of HRT prescription items, including patches, tablets and topical preparations. It can be used for an unlimited amount of these treatments.
A full list of treatments covered by the certificate can be found here.
What isn’t covered?
Testosterone preparations are not covered by the HRT PPC. Testosterone is recommended by NICE for symptoms of low libido when HRT alone is not helping, and in my clinic patients often say it helps with other menopausal symptoms including brain fog, energy levels and low mood.
RELATED: The importance of testosterone for women
How do I use my PPC certificate?
The DHSC advises that to use your HRT PPC, ask your prescriber for your HRT items on a separate prescription to any other medicines you are prescribed (one prescription per item). This ensures the prescription can be processed correctly at your pharmacy.
If you have an Apple phone (iOS 10 or later), you can now add your HRT PPC to your Apple Wallet, where you’ll be able to see your certificate reference number, start and expiry date, information on how to use it and a link to the list of HRT PPC covered medicines.
RELATED: Help! I’ve forgotten to take my HRT
What about other parts of the UK?
The HRT prescription prepayment certificate is available in England only. In Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland all prescriptions, including HRT, are free. In Ireland, a free HRT scheme has been delayed but is expected to commence on 1 June 2025.
