§ Mr. HeyesTo ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer if he will review the prescription pre-payment certificate scheme with reference to the evidence cited in paragraph 6.74 in the Wanless report. [60402]
§ Mr. Lammy[holding answer 10 June 2002]: I have been asked to reply.
The Wanless report noted that 85 per cent. of prescriptions are dispensed free of charge and that the level of charges for those who have to pay is capped by the pre-payment certificate arrangements. We are taking steps to make pre-payment certificates more accessible. From 1 October, the prescription pricing authority (PPA) will take responsibility for issuing these certificates. The application form will be redesigned and carry the PPA's address, all patient material will be revised and pharmacists will be encouraged to publicise the availability of prescription pre-payment certificates. Once the new arrangements are in place, we can examine the opportunities for further improvements to access.