patient information: treatment charges
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6. Are there any charges for my treatment?
Almost all treatment offered by the NHS is free. Exceptions to this are:
- Prescriptions. These currently cost £6.40 per item (unless you are entitled to free or low-cost medicines).
- Dental treatment. The NHS does not pay for dental check-ups, but may pay part of the cost of dental treatment. Ask your dentist to explain this to you. A check up currently costs about £20.00.
- Eye tests, glasses and contact lenses. The NHS does not pay for eye tests, glasses or contact lenses unless you are on a low income, over 60 or otherwise exempt from paying for treatment. A sight test currently costs about £20.00.
- Transport to and from hospital. If a doctor has agreed that you are entitled to patient transport services, you can be picked up and brought home from hospital by the patient transport staff. Otherwise you must arrange your own travel. If you have to go into hospital, ask your doctor for information about transport.
However, some people are entitled to help with the cost of their prescriptions, transport and other costs. You may be entitled to reduced costs or free treatment if you are:
- over 60 years old
- unemployed
- on a low income
- a child or still in full-time education
- a pregnant woman or a new mother
- suffering from a long-term medical condition
A leaflet that explains the current charges can be found here (in English):
NHS charges information leaflet |
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