Increased prescription charges; how to deal with them

By Jennifer Argent, Medical Negligence Solicitor

Last month the government announced that prescription charges will increase to £9.00 from 1st April 2019.

The prescription charges continue to increase year on year and there is now growing concern that those who require them will struggle to afford them, particularly those who suffer from a chronic illnesses not covered by the medical exemption certificate.

Patients who have suffered as a result of clinical negligence will also be impacted.

Thankfully, the cost of a pre-payment certificate has been frozen, so if you need more than four prescriptions in a three month period you will save money by purchasing the three month certificate for £29.10.

If your health problems are likely to last longer then you may wish to consider an annual pre-payment certificate for £104.00.

Speak to your GP or Pharmacy about obtaining a pre-paid certificate and whether this would benefit you.

If you are in the process of bringing a clinical negligence claim, ask your solicitor if they can request some interim damages for you to help you with medication costs as not taking prescribed medication may cause you more harm in the long term or delay your recovery.