Free medical prescriptions?

[sam357]

Hi,

So I have had a stoma for nearly three years. I've always had my stoma medical supplies delivered for free on the nhs but pay for all other prescriptions.

However, the other day when I saw a nurse she said I should have an exemption card and should be able to get all my prescriptions for free. Is this right?

Thanks
Sam

 

[EvieBaby]

Yes I think this is true. You can ask for a form from your gp and they will sign this and send this off for you. My dad had a stoma and he certainly didn't pay for his but this was a while ago. Maybe just check with your doctor but as far as I know this is right

 

[sam357]

Thanks for your response. I'm seeing the nurse again on Thursday so will see what she say about filling out the form.

Can't believe I have been paying for my prescriptions all this time... I wonder if I can get a refund......?

 

[EvieBaby]

If you have any receipts you should be able to but how many of us keep them? I bet you would be due a lot!!!

 

[SarahD]

I think you only get free NHS prescriptions if your stoma is permanent. The NHS website states:

Medical exemption certificates are issued on application to people who have:
a permanent fistula (for example caecostomy, colostomy, laryngostomy or ileostomy) requiring continuous surgical dressing or requiring an appliance

http://www.nhs.uk/NHSEngland/Healthcosts/Pages/Prescriptioncosts.aspx

You can only claim a refund if you got a prescription receipt when you paid and it was within that last 3 months.

 

[UnXmas]

I get all my prescriptions free because I have a stoma.