Removing free prescriptions for over 60s has been described as ‘taxing the sick’ by protestors during a consultation over whether the benefit will be brought in line with the state pension age.
New proposals will see 2.4 million people who are below retirement age could lose out on free NHS prescriptions, with the age limit rising to 66.
People missing out on free prescriptions would be expected to start paying £9.35 per medicine, a move that has been described as ‘unacceptable’ by health professionals.
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Thorrun Govind, a member of the Royal Pharmaceutical Society, said: “Many more people will be affected by this tax on the sick at exactly the time at which they may be needing more medicines.
“It is unacceptable to raise the cost of prescriptions in the current economic situation when many have been disadvantaged. Such proposals will only further drive the health inequalities that have been highlighted by Covid-19.”
The plans, if brought in, could save the NHS £257million a year, with the belief being that that people aged between 60 & 65 can be “economically active and more able to meet the cost.”
But doctors have labelled the plans a false economy.
Campaigners said that those least able to start paying the prescription fees will suffer a “devastating” blow to their wellbeing. This has led to warnings that it could trigger a rise in hospital admissions, eventually costing the NHS more than the plans will save.
A coalition of 25 organisations, led by Age UK, yesterday wrote to the Health Secretary demanding the controversial prescriptions proposal is dropped as it would penalise the most vulnerable.
The letter explained their “deep shared concern” over the plans and the impact they would have.
Prof Martin Marshall, chairman of the Royal College of General Practitioners, said: “We have always been supportive of any safe and sensible measures to reduce medication costs for patients and ensure equitable access.
“We urge the Government to reconsider these proposals.”
Anyone aged 60 and over can currently get free NHS prescriptions in England- in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland all prescriptions are free for everyone regardless of age.
Last month, 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."
The Department for Health said it expects up to 354,000 will cut down on medication to save paying - and campaigners fear 46,000 will then need hospital care if the proposals go ahead.
