Add Sickle Cell Disease to NHS Prescription Charge Exemption List

We ask the Government to add Sickle Cell Disease (SCD) to the NHS prescription charge exemption list as soon as possible. This will help ensure those affected by this serious condition, which can be life-threatening, can access essential medication and treatments without financial burden.

Sickle Cell Disease is a lifelong condition which can lead to other life-threatening health problems. It particularly commonly affects people with an African or Caribbean family background. Yet unlike many other serious illnesses, it’s not covered by NHS prescription charge exemptions despite being the most common genetic blood disorder in the UK. Many patients may not be able to work but still face monthly costs for vital medication.

We think this isn’t just unfair—it’s unjust. We urge the government to add SCD to the exemption list and take a stand against inequality in healthcare.

The Government has no current plans to review the list of medical conditions that entitle someone to apply for a medical exemption certificate, including relating to sickle cell disease.

There are extensive arrangements in place in England to ensure that prescriptions are affordable for everyone. Approximately 89% of prescription items are dispensed free of charge in the community in England, and there are a wide range of exemptions from prescription charges already in place for which those with sickle cell disease may be eligible. Eligibility depends on the patient’s age, whether they are in qualifying full-time education, whether they are pregnant or have recently given birth, or whether they are in receipt of certain benefits or a war pension. People on low incomes can apply for help with their health costs through the NHS Low Income Scheme. The Scheme provides income-related help to people who are not automatically exempt from charges but who may be entitled to full or partial help if they have a low income and savings below a defined limit. More information can be found here: https://www.nhsbsa.nhs.uk/help-nhs-prescription-costs/free-nhs-prescriptions

People who need to pay NHS prescription charges and need many prescription items could save money with a prescription prepayment certificate (PPC), which allows people to claim as many prescriptions as they need for a set cost. A 3-monthly PPC (costing £32.05) or an annual PPC (costing £114.50) will save people money if they need four or more items in 3 months or 12 or more items in 12 months. To help spread the cost, people can pay for an annual PPC by 10 monthly direct debits. A holder of a 12-month certificate can get all the prescriptions they need for just over £2 per week. More information, and a link to purchase a PPC, can be found here: https://www.nhsbsa.nhs.uk/help-nhs-prescription-costs/nhs-prescription-prepayment-certificate-ppc