Free Prescriptions People aged 60 and Over 2022-01-18
2022-01-18
Response quality
Questions & Answers
Q1
Partial Answer
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Context
A policy change could affect a vulnerable age group with higher likelihood of long-term illnesses requiring medication. A constituent expressed concern about the cost of his wife's Parkinson's medication if free prescriptions were no longer available.
I am concerned that such a policy change would impact individuals aged 60 and over who are more likely to have one or more long-term illnesses requiring medication. My constituent has informed me of his worry regarding the cost of his wife's Parkinson's medication should this change be implemented. Given the additional strain of rising living costs, will the Secretary of State reconsider these proposals and review the medical exemption criteria?
There is no decision made regarding an increase in the upper age limit for free prescriptions. The rumour of pensioners losing access to free prescriptions is completely false. The Government remains committed to maintaining free prescriptions for pensioners.
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Assessment & feedback
Reviewing medical exemption criteria and reconsidering proposals
Can I Just Reinforce The Answer I Have Just Given?
There Is No Decision...
Response accuracy
Q2
Partial Answer
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Context
A constituent of the MP has expressed concern about the potential cost implications if free prescriptions were no longer available to people aged 60 and over.
Given that a change in policy could affect millions facing additional prescription costs, will the Secretary of State reconsider these proposals and review the list of conditions qualifying for medical exemption certificates?
There is no decision to increase the upper age limit for free prescriptions. The rumour that pensioners will lose access to free prescriptions is false, and the Government remains committed to maintaining this benefit.
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Assessment & feedback
Reviewing medical exemption criteria and reconsidering proposals
Can I Just Reinforce The Answer I Have Just Given?
There Is No Decision...
Response accuracy
Q3
Direct Answer
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Context
A policy change could affect those who regularly use their pharmacy, potentially increasing their costs.
I am glad to hear that no decision has been made on this important matter. Will my hon. Friend remind those paying for prescriptions about the pre-payment certificate which can save them money?
My hon. Friend is right, and he correctly highlights the pre-payment certificate. For those who regularly use their pharmacy, a 12-month pre-payment certificate costs about £2 per week and can save £116.30 for two items or £228.50 for three items.
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Assessment & feedback
Response accuracy