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NHS prescriptions typically come with a £9.90 charge per item, however, for some individuals, this cost can be reduced to nothing based on the medical condition they are treating. According to NHS guidelines, there are only 10 conditions that qualify for this exemption and patients must obtain a Medical Exemption Certificate as proof of their eligibility for free prescriptions.
This includes:
- A permanent fistula
- Hypoadrenalism
- Diabetes insipidus
- Diabetes mellitus
- Hypoparathyroidism
- Myasthenia gravis
- Myxoedema
- Epilepsy
- Physical disabilities
- Cancer
- Fistulas
Fistulas
Fistulas, which are unusual connections between two parts of the body, can either occur as a result of complications such as cancer or be surgically created through procedures like colostomy, laryngostomy or ileostomy, which link a part of the bowel to the skin. If the fistula is permanent, like a caecostomy or colostomy, and requires ongoing surgical dressing or an appliance for management, you could be eligible for free prescriptions.
Hypoadrenalism
Hypoadrenalism is a condition where the adrenal glands, crucial in the body’s stress response, fail to function correctly. If specific substitution therapy is required to treat the condition, such as Addison’s Disease which is commonly managed with hormone replacement therapy, you may qualify for free prescriptions.
Hypopituitarism
Hypopituitarism is a disorder affecting the pituitary gland located at the base of the brain, resulting in insufficient production of one or more hormones. This can lead to conditions like diabetes insipidus and other forms of hypopituitarism that make you eligible for free prescriptions.
Diabetes Mellitus
Diabetes mellitus, the official scientific term for diabetes, is a condition where your body doesn’t produce enough insulin or can’t process it effectively. Free prescriptions are only available if your specific type of diabetes cannot be managed by diet alone, which is often the case with type two diabetes.
Hypoparathyroidism
This rare endocrine disorder affects the parathyroid glands in your neck and can lead to issues with bones, muscles and nerves. The majority of patients can be treated by taking vitamin D and calcium supplements for the rest of their lives.
Myasthenia Gravis
Myasthenia gravis is a rare, long-term condition causing muscle weakness that is most common in women under 40 and men over 60. It can usually be treated with a range of medications which may have to be taken multiple times a day as they only provide short-term relief.
Myxoedema
This is a severe form of underactive thyroid. It’s typically treated with thyroid hormone replacement medication and can qualify for free prescriptions as a result.
Epilepsy
This neurological condition will only qualify for free prescriptions if you are prescribed continuous anticonvulsive treatments to manage it. According to the NHS, if you have epilepsy, you’ll be entitled to free prescriptions for all of your medicines.
Physical disability
If you’re living with a persistent physical disability that prevents you from going out without another person’s assistance, you might be eligible for free prescriptions. Each case is evaluated individually, and it’s crucial to understand that qualification requires the aid of another individual, not a guide dog or special equipment, as per Care Home.
Cancer
For those battling cancer, prescriptions for medications to treat the cancer, its side effects, or the impact of cancer treatment are provided free of charge.
If you meet the criteria for free prescriptions under these circumstances, you’ll need to obtain a medical exemption certificate application form from your GP or doctor. These certificates typically last five years before needing renewal.
Be aware that claiming free prescriptions without a valid medical exemption certificate, or failing to present it at the pharmacy when collecting your medications, could result in a penalty charge.
