Diabetes Prescriptions
For free prescriptions, you will need a current exemption certificate
Exemption certificates for prescriptions are available for those people who take insulin or medication to control their diabetes.
This type of certificate lasts for a 5 year period, and people with diabetes can apply using a form from their doctor of from the Post Office.
However, people that use diet to control their diabetes and do not need medication will not be granted a Medical Exemption Certificate.
So how do I get free prescriptions?
To get a free prescriptions, people with diabetes need to have a valid and current Medical Exemption Certificate.
Many pharmacies will still provide you with free prescriptions without a Medical Exemption Certificate, but this will be indexed on the form and may require you to present your certificate at a later date.
Carrying your Medical Exemption Certificate whenever you need a prescription is essential, and it’s also worth remembering to stock up if you go travelling abroad.
Furthermore, exemption certificates for people with diabetes do go out of date after 5 years, so keep it valid.
What other benefits are available for people with diabetes?
People with diabetes in the UK are also exempt from VAT on items such as blood glucose monitors and test strips.
- Find out more about VAT exemption.
Currently, the VAT rate in the United Kingdom is 20%.
I live in Wales, do I still get free prescriptions?
Yes, if you are registered with a GP in Wales you can still get free prescriptions as a diabetic.
Furthermore, those people with diabetes registered with an English GP can get free prescriptions with a Medical Exemption Certificate.
People with diabetes treated with tablets or injections are entitled to free prescriptions. To avoid paying charges for your medication, you need to have a valid ‘medical exemption certificate’.
Other people may also be entitled to free prescriptions if they meet certain conditions. People under 16 or over 60 year old are eligible for an exemption certificate for example.
A medical exemption certificate usually takes the form of a wallet sized card which you can present to confirm you are exempt from paying prescription charges.
Ask your health centre for a medical exemption application form. Alternatively, you may be able to pick up a form from your post office.
It is best to always have your medical exemption card with you when you are picking up your supplies and medication from the pharmacy. Your medical exemption certificate will be valid for 5 years, so you will need to re-apply for the certificate before your existing one expires.
It’s a good idea to re-apply a month before your current exemption certificate expires.
How do I get a Medical Exemption Certificate?
Ask your healthcare team for a Medical Exemption Certificate application or pick up a form from your local post office. A Medical Exemption Certificate will last for five years, so make sure re-apply before your current Medical Exemption Certificate expires.
Join us