June 2018 will see the 50 year anniversary of the medical exemption list, which grants people with some health conditions free prescriptions whilst excluding many others.
Many people living with a long-term condition such as lupus are already on a lower income; a survey of LUPUS UK members revealed that only 15% of individuals worked full-time with over 50% receiving some form of benefits. For those not entitled to free prescriptions it can mean tough choices such as heating the house or paying for medicine.
In a survey by the Prescription Charges Coalition, a third of people with long-term conditions of working age revealed that they have not collected a prescription due to cost. This often leads to a deterioration in their health, and can mean extra GP appointments, hospital admissions, and time off work – all potentially costing the NHS and society more.
It’s time the system was changed. England is the only part of the UK that charges for prescriptions. It’s time that everyone with a long-term condition has access to free prescriptions.
To sign the petition calling on the government to urgently reform the prescription charge exemption criteria in England, and make prescriptions free for people living with long-term conditions, please follow the link below;
Unfair NHS or government jobs worth !!!!!!
Survey of people with rheumatic conditions about the fourth COVID 19 vaccination dose
