Free prescriptions blow for thousands in county would be ‘kick in teeth’

A PLAN which would see thousands of people in Derbyshire lose access to free prescriptions has been slammed as a “kick in the teeth”.

The idea is being looked at nationally as a way of raising an extra £300 million for the hardpressed NHS.

Consultations began last month on potentially moving the free prescription age up to 66, which would be in line with the current state pension age for men and women.

At the moment, anyone aged 60 and over can qualify for free prescriptions, which normally cost £9.65 per medicine.

The move would mean more than 2.4 million people could lose their free prescriptions.

There are fears that this would lead people on low incomes to skip medication, as they would be unable to afford the amount they need.

Caroline Abrahams, charity director for Age UK, said: “This proposed policy is a kick in the teeth, both for poorly older people and the NHS.

“It is also extremely ill-judged because the money the Government will save will almost certainly be outweighed by the additional costs to the NHS if people fail to take their medication because they can’t afford it and become ill.”

The charity has since launched a campaign to try and save free prescriptions for over-60s ahead of the end of the planned consultation period, which is in two weeks.

Age UK also added that people on low incomes, but just above the benefits line, would be hit hardest by the plans.

It has been claimed that some people may be forced to ration the medication they take, as they will not be able to afford the amounts they are currently able to.

Jan Short, general secretary of the National Pensioners Convention, mentioned the impact the loss of free prescriptions would have on people over 60.

She said: “(The plans) will have a massive negative effect on the health of pensioners who lose their free prescriptions.”

“Prescription charges are not affordable if you are on low income without financial help of some kind.”

The Department of Health has been widely criticised for the plans during the consultation period.

A spokesperson for the Department said: “We continue to protect the most vulnerable and support is available for those on a low income and on certain benefits.”

The age at which people can receive free prescriptions has been set at 60 for women since 1974, and since 1995 for men.