NHS update over two groups being 'added' to free prescription list
Labour has spoken out over hopes more conditions will be added to the NHS prescription charge exemption list. The new Labour Party government spoke out after questions from MPs over a possible expansion of the eligibility and assessment criteria.
Yasmin Qureshi, Labour Party MP for Bolton South and Walkden, reached out in the Commons "to ask the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, what assessment he has made of the potential merits of adding medications for (a) chronic kidney disease and (b) recipients of kidney transplants to the NHS prescription charge exemption list."
Karyn Smith replied: "There are no current plans to review the list of medical conditions that entitle someone to apply for a medical exemption certificate. Approximately 89% of prescription items are dispensed free of charge in the community in England, and there are a wide range of exemptions from prescription charges already in place for which those with chronic kidney disease or in receipt of a kidney transplant may be eligible. Eligibility depends on the patient’s age, whether they are in qualifying full-time education, whether they are pregnant or have recently given birth, or whether they are in receipt of certain benefits or a war pension.
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"People on low incomes can apply for help with their health costs through the NHS Low Income Scheme. Prescription prepayment certificates (PPCs) are also available. PPCs allow people to claim as many prescriptions as they need for a set cost, with three month and 12-month certificates available. The 12-month PPC can be paid for in instalments."
It comes after Sir Keir Starmer has vowed to be bold and face down “loud opposition” to his planned public health measures and NHS reforms after a major inquiry found the health service was “in critical condition”. The prime minister said he was prepared to take “controversial” action to fix the NHS and public health in England after the findings by the cancer surgeon and former minister Ara Darzi.
In a speech at the King’s Fund, Starmer said he intended to perform “major surgery not sticking plasters” on the NHS and take “much bolder” measures to prevent illness.