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Visit to new GP practice

C

captainlynne

Well-Known Member
Messages
253
Location
Sunny St Ives, Cornwall
Having just moved house I registered with only local practice. When I couldn't find my test meter I asked this morning for one from them. They got one out of the box, checked computer screen and told me I'm not diabetic! Told them T2, diet controlled. Then they said I don't need to test as can't get hypos. She then said it's financial as a tub of strips costs £50!!!!!! Just been on to Abbott for a new meter, and they charge just over £18 for a tub, having to charge VAT as I'm not on medication. I can see interesting discussions in the days ahead
 
I don't pay VAT on my testing equipment and I'm also diet only, no meds. All I am ever asked is if I am diabetic. Never been asked about meds. Are you mixing this up with prescription charges, which are only free if you are on meds?

Welcome to the normal world of having to self finance this testing business!
 
No, I was told by Abbott Order Line that they have to charge VAT as I am not on medication. I was surprised as I had not been told this previously. I have sourced strips previously but my last GP prescribed a limited amount - for a while.
 
That is news to me. Everything I have read suggests that diabetes is considered to be a chronic illness and therefore diabetics are exempt from VAT on items such as testing equipment. I have never seen any mention of a requirement to be on medication.

I buy my strips on-line direct from the supplier. (Codefree) The order form contains the question "are you diabetic" to which you answer yes or no. No further questions about meds.
 
So if you told abbot you were on metformin for example you wouldnt pay VAT? I'm not saying you should lie but.....
 
captainlynne said:
No, I was told by Abbott Order Line that they have to charge VAT as I am not on medication. I was surprised as I had not been told this previously. I have sourced strips previously but my last GP prescribed a limited amount - for a while.
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I think Abbott are wrong.
 
You are entitled to VAT relief as this article from the main website shows.

http://www.diabetes.co.uk/vat-exemption.html
 
Isnt it shocking how you when you look after yourself you get this type of bull shoved in your face at every turn.
 
Hi Bluetit, do you still have fill in the Vat exemption form for the code free test strips ?
 
Bluetit1802 said:
Not an actual form. You just tick the yes box that you are diabetic, and declare you live in the UK.
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Cheers have done that .... @captainlynne i can fully recommend the code free meters, as the test strips are reasonably priced, but you have to self fund for this as your Dr cannot give a prescription for them.
 
Enclave said:
Cheers have done that .... @captainlynne i can fully recommend the code free meters, as the test strips are reasonably priced, but you have to self fund for this as your Dr cannot give a prescription for them.
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on the NHS electronic drug tariff, the SD codefree IS listed so shouold be theoretically prescribable.
 
I think the reason doctors don't prescribe the Codefree strips is because Codefree do not give away meters to GP surgeries, whereas other manufacturers do. My surgery gives Accu Chek meters and strips (not to type 2's though!) because most likely they have an exclusive contract with them.
 
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