Written question asked by Adam Dance (Liberal Democrat) on Wednesday, 29 January 2025, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Wednesday, 5 February 2025 (named day). It was answered by Karin Smyth (Labour) on Wednesday, 5 February 2025 on behalf of the Department of Health and Social Care.

Kidneys: Transplant Surgery

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, what assessment he has made of the potential impact of prescription charges on the uptake of prescribed medication for people who have undergone a kidney transplant.

Answer

There are no plans to assess the impact of prescription charges on people who have undergone a kidney transplant.

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 is a wide range of exemptions from prescription charges already in place for which those with long term or chronic conditions 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, whether they have a qualifying medical condition, 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. Prescription prepayment certificates (PPCs) are also available. PPCs allow people to claim as many prescriptions as they need for a set cost, with three-month and 12-month certificates available. The 12-month PPC can be paid for in instalments.

Secondary information

Type: Written question
Reference: 27427
Session: 2024-26
Subjects: Fees and charges Drugs Kidneys Prescriptions Transplant surgery
Link: View this Written question on www.parliament.uk

Kidneys: Transplant Surgery

Secondary information

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