There are several ways to qualify for free prescriptions in the UK, including:
- Age: If you are 60 or over, you are entitled to free NHS prescriptions.
- Medical conditions: People with certain medical conditions can get free NHS prescriptions if they have a valid medical exemption certificate (MedEx). Some of the medical conditions that qualify for a MedEx include cancer, a permanent fistula requiring continuous surgical dressing or an appliance, and epilepsy.
- Income: You may be entitled to free NHS prescriptions if you receive certain benefits, such as Income Support, income-based Jobseekers Allowance, or Pension Credit Guarantee Credit.
- Pregnancy: If you are pregnant or have had a baby in the last 12 months, you are entitled to free NHS prescriptions.
- Full-time education: If you are 16 to 18 and in full-time education, you are entitled to free NHS prescriptions.
In addition, some prescribed items are always free, including contraceptives and medications for sexually transmitted infections. If you dont qualify for free prescriptions, you may still be able to get low-cost or free medications through patient assistance programs offered by drug companies or federal and state programs. Veterans may also be eligible for free VA health care and prescriptions for service-connected conditions.
