One year since launch of HRT PPC: patients reminded to renew their certificate

More than 500,000 HRT PPCs have been purchased over the past 12 months, saving patients millions of pounds in prescription charges.

Patients who purchased an HRT PPC in April 2023 are reminded to renew their certificate if they wish to continue saving money on their HRT prescriptions.

With an HRT PPC, patients can access an unlimited number of listed HRT medicines over 12 months for the cost of two single prescription charges.

Improving menopause support is a priority in the government's Women’s Health Strategy, with HRT PPCs being a key aspect in this area.

Minister for Women’s Health Strategy Maria Caulfield said:

“When we launched the Women’s Health Strategy, we made it clear our aim is to create a health system that listens to – and works for – women.

“A key part of this has been enabling better support for women experiencing the menopause. Women using the certificates have saved almost £16 million overall, along with new women’s health hubs and the launch of a dedicated menopause information hub on the NHS website – huge progress is being made.

“I’m urging all women to check and renew their PPC to make sure they are getting the best value for money.”

Michael Brodie, Chief Executive of the NHS Business Services Authority (NHSBSA), which is responsible for delivering this service, said:

“Having an HRT PPC saves patients money if they currently pay for more than two HRT prescriptions in a year. The certificate helps users access their important medication in an easy and affordable way and we look forward to another great year for the service.”

Patients who purchased an HRT PPC in April 2023 will be notified by the NHSBSA that their certificate is due to expire soon.

HRT PPCs can be bought online at www.nhsbsa.nhs.uk/hrt-ppc or in-person at some pharmacies.

Before buying an HRT PPC, patients should check if:

• they can get free NHS prescriptions using the NHS eligibility checker: www.nhsbsa.nhs.uk/check
• their medicine is covered by the HRT PPC: www.nhsbsa.nhs.uk/hrt-ppc-medicines
• a three or 12 month PPC is more suitable for their needs. It covers all NHS prescriptions, including HRT items: www.nhsbsa.nhs.uk/ppc

Patients are encouraged to check when their HRT PPC expires. If they use their certificate after it has expired to collect medication, this could result in a penalty charge of up to £100. More information about this process is available on our website: www.nhsbsa.nhs.uk/understanding-penalty-charges