Penalty Charge

The NHS Penalty Charge Regulations 1999 provide for a penalty charge to be levied on prescriptions where the charge has been evaded. In addition, if the penalty is not paid, a surcharge can be imposed. This is in addition to the normal cost of the items dispensed.

The PPA has been asked to apply these regulations to all prescriptions dispensed on or after 1 December 2000. Detailed discussions are taking place with the NHS Executive concerning the application of these Regulations.

The PPA expects to be applying the first penalty charges in late April or early May 2001.

A full article about the Penalty Charge and its application will appear in the next issue of imPACT.