The latest United Kingdom (UK) government announcement marks two significant developments for community pharmacy and patient care in England for 2025/26. We thought we would provide an update here at www.pharmascholar.co.uk
NHS Prescription Charges Freeze:
For the upcoming financial period, NHS prescription charges will remain frozen at £9.90 per item. This means that neither the charge for individual prescriptions nor those for three‐month and annual pre-payment certificates, including hormone replacement therapy (HRT) certificates, will increase. This decision continues a policy of stabilising costs and providing much-needed relief at a time when many people are feeling the pinch of the cost-of-living crisis. By keeping charges unchanged, the government projects that patients will save approximately £18 million over the next year. The unchanged fee structure ensures consistency for those who are already paying while exempt groups (e.g. children, over-60s, pregnant women and individuals with certain chronic conditions) will continue to receive their prescribed medicines free of charge. This measure forms part of broader government efforts to ease financial pressures and improve access to essential health services.
Updated NMS Claiming Guidance:
In parallel, new guidance on New Medicines Service (NMS) claims was issued today. The updated rules simplify the payment structure for pharmacies, with each intervention or follow-up consultation now attracting a standardised fee of £14. If both consultations are completed for a single patient interaction, the combined payment totals £28. The guidance emphasises that claims should only be made when an actual consultation is conducted. For instance, if a pharmacy manages to deliver the intervention consultation but is unable to reach the patient for the follow-up, only the initial £14 fee can be claimed. Additionally, to ensure timely reimbursement, pharmacies must submit these claims via the MYS portal by the 5th day of the month following the service period. This revised process is designed to streamline administrative functions while maintaining high service standards in community pharmacy practice.
Together, these positive measures underline the government's commitment to supporting both patients and pharmacy services, ensuring affordability and operational clarity as the NHS continues to evolve. This is a great step for all!
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Community Pharmacy in the UK