Money Matters: Get help with NHS costs

Accessing healthcare should never be a financial burden, yet for many, the costs of prescriptions, dental care, eye care and other treatments can quickly add up.

The good news is that there are ways to reduce or eliminate these costs if you qualify for help. Here’s what you need to know.

Many people are entitled to free prescriptions. You qualify automatically if you’re under 16 (under 19 if you’re still in full-time education) or over 60.

Pregnant women and those who have had a baby in the past 12 months can also get free prescriptions, as can people with certain medical conditions.

If you think you qualify, speak to your GP or pharmacist to apply for a medical exemption certificate.

If you’re receiving certain benefits like Universal Credit, Income Support, Pension Credit (Guarantee Credit), or income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance, you may be eligible for free prescriptions, dental treatment, and other NHS services. Be sure to check your award notice to confirm eligibility.

For those on a tight budget but not claiming benefits, the NHS Low Income Scheme (LIS) can help.

You’ll need to complete an HC1 form to apply, which can be obtained online, at GP surgeries, or from NHS hospitals. Based on your income and savings, you may receive an HC2 certificate (full help) or HC3 certificate (partial help).

Recipients of certain benefits and those eligible for the LIS can also claim back reasonable travel costs if they, or a dependent child, are referred further afield for specialist treatment.

If you regularly need prescriptions but don’t qualify for free ones, you could save money with a Prescription Prepayment Certificate (PPC).

It costs £31.25 for three months or £111.60 for 12 months, covering unlimited prescriptions during that time.

Free NHS eye tests and glasses vouchers are available for those who qualify under similar criteria. Children, full-time students under 19, and people claiming certain benefits are eligible.

You will usually be asked for evidence when claiming free or reduced NHS treatment, so always have this to hand. You could also be asked to prove your eligibility at a later date.

Remember, help is out there. Take the time to check your eligibility and apply for support where it’s available. Don’t let financial worries prevent you from accessing the care you need.