The Department of Health has issued a press release stating that the price of an NHS prescription in England is to rise by 15p to £6.65 with effect from 1st April 2006.
The price of pre-payment certificates will also rise to £34.65 for a four-month certificate and £95.30 for a twelve-month certificate.
The BBC has also reported the increase quoting a health minister stating the rise is below the rate of inflation. Despite this some national bodies have again asked if the system is fair or if it is a tax on the sick.
Action: Clinicians may need to be aware of the current NHS prescription charge.