Find out if you are part of the 15 groups that qualify for free prescriptions

With inflation pushing the cost of living through the roof, most people are on high alert for ways they can save on certain expenses. Well, one way to do that might be to check if you are eligible for free prescriptions. Free prescriptions are available to below 16, over 60 or those 16, 17 and 18-year-olds in full time education. But there are many more categories that are covered by this NHS program.

Do you qualify?

According to the national health service provider, you can also get free prescriptions if at the time the prescription is dispensed, you:

• Are pregnant or have had a baby in the previous 12 months and have a valid maternity exemption certificate (MatEx)
• Have a specified medical condition and have a valid medical exemption certificate (MedEx)
• Have a continuing physical disability that prevents you going out without help from another person and have a valid medical exemption certificate (MedEx)
• Hold a valid war pension exemption certificate and the prescription is for your accepted disability

Being an NHS inpatient is also enough grounds to benefit from this cost-saving program. You can find the full list on the NHS website.

Other criteria

People with certain medical conditions like cancer, a permanent fistular requiring continuous surgical dressing or appliance can get free NHS prescriptions. Pharmacists will require proof of the above exemptions before serving you.

If your particular situation does not qualify you for free prescriptions, but you are struggling financially, there are other means of support available to you including prepayment certificates and the NHS low income scheme. Check with your pharmacist to see which of these benefits you might be eligible for.

Read more:

⋙ The NHS is offering free life-saving heart checks. Here's how to get yours

⋙ NHS loosens restrictions on IVF. Here’s how it benefits you

⋙ Pink eye, colds and cough among medical conditions that will no longer require prescriptions