The cost of an NHS prescription in England is set to rise by 20p
The government have announced that NHS prescriptions in England will rise by 20p from April 1.
This means that an NHS prescription in England will now costs £8.60.
Health minister Philip Dunne explained that this rise was "broadly in line with inflation."
However this rise is in stark contrast to the situation in the rest of the UK, as prescriptions are currently FREE in Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland.
Although the cost of basic prescriptions is set to rise, the cost of prescription prepayment certificates (PPC), will not change.
Talking about the changes, Philip Dunne told MPs: "Existing arrangements for prescription charge exemptions will remain in place, principally covering those with certain medical conditions like cancer, epilepsy and diabetes, pregnant women and new mothers, children under 16 and anyone over 60, and those on a low income."
The cost of dental care is also set to rise in England; the lowest-cost band one treatment rising by 90p and band three treatment increasing by £10.60.
A spokesman from the Department of Health commented: "Dental charges have always represented an important contribution to the overall cost of dental services - but we are ensuring that those who are unable to pay, including children, nursing mothers, and those on certain benefits remain totally exempt from charges."
For more information on NHS prescription costs, head to the official NHS website.
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