Extensive exemption and remission arrangements protect those likely to have difficulty in paying charges (NHS prescription and dental charges, optical and hospital travel costs).
You can get free NHS prescriptions, if at the time the prescription is dispensed you:
- Are 60 or over
- Are under 16
- Are 16-18 and in full time education
- Are pregnant or have had a baby in the previous 12 months and have a valid maternity exemption certificate
- Have a specified medical condition and have a valid medical exemption certificate
- Have a continuing physical disability that prevents you from going out without help from another person and have a valid medical exemption certificate
- Hold a valid war pension exemption certificate and the prescription is for your accepted disability
- Are an NHS inpatient
You are also entitled to free prescriptions if you or your partner (including civil partners) are named on, or are entitled to, an NHS tax credit exemption certificate or valid HC2 certificate (full help with health costs), or you receive
- income support
- Income based Jobseekers allowance
- Income related employment and support allowance or
- Pension Credit guarantee credit