Free prescriptions for over-60s ‘must be saved’: Scrapping the medical benefit would be a ‘kick in the teeth’ for older people, charity warns
- Age UK said scrapping free over-60s prescriptions would be ‘kick in the teeth’
- 2.4million more Britons would have to pay the £9.35 charge if it is scrapped
- Charity fears many will be unable to afford the cost, so will forgo their drugs
- Warned that people would then become ill and place burden on health service
Scrapping free prescriptions for over-60s would be a ‘kick in the teeth’ for older people and the NHS, a charity has warned.
Age UK says 2.4million more Britons would have to pay the £9.35 charge if ministers press ahead with plans to raise the qualifying age from 60 to 66.
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It fears many will be unable to afford the cost, so will forgo their drugs and become more ill – placing a bigger burden on the health service.
Scrapping free prescriptions for over-60s would be a ‘kick in the teeth’ for older people and the NHS, a charity has warned. Picture: Stock
It added scrapping free prescriptions for this age group is ‘likely to exacerbate existing health inequalities’ and have a ‘devastating impact’ on older people’s health.
Caroline Abrahams, Age UK’s charity director, 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 Department of Health wants to bring the free prescription age in line with the state pension age – which is currently 66.
It fears many will be unable to afford the cost, so will forgo their drugs and become more ill – placing a bigger burden on the health service. Picture: Stock
It is estimated the move could bring in £300million for the NHS by 2026/27.
A health department spokesman said the age people received free prescriptions in England had not changed since 1974 for women, and 1995 for men.
He added: ‘We continue to protect the most vulnerable and support is available for those on a low income and on certain benefits.’