§ Lynne JonesTo ask the Secretary of State for Health what he is doing to help poor people get access to essential medicines. [110482]
§ Mr. LammyThe addition to the extensive arrangements under which people are entitled to free Prescriptions the grounds of their age or medical condition, there are specific arrangements to help those on a low income. People who receive income support or income based on jobseekers allowance, or are entitled to or are named on an National Health Service Tax Credit exemption certificate are automatically entitled to free prescriptions. Other people on a low income can seek help under the NHS low income scheme.
People who do have to pay charges and who need frequent prescriptions may benefit from purchasing a prescription prepayment certificate which will save patients money if they need more than five items in four months or 14 items in 12 months.