Delay on decision about free prescriptions for the long-term ill

The new coalition government has announced that the decision to review exemptions on prescription charges will not now be made until after the spending review expected this autumn. The phasing in of free prescriptions would mean that people with diabetes, as well as those newly diagnosed with the condition, would continue to receive free prescriptions.
Gordon Brown announced new plans in September 2008 for an extension to free prescription charges to all those with long-term conditions in England over the next few years. The government then commissioned Professor Ian Gilmore, president of the Royal College of Physicians, to undertake a review and make recommendations regarding how the commitment could be implemented.
The Gilmore Review, published a few days ago, presents his ideas for reforming the existing system.
Stella Valerkou, who is Senior Policy Officer at Diabetes UK, commented on the news, saying ” Diabetes UK welcomes the review recommendation that people with long-term conditions should receive free prescriptions. The review recommends a broad definition of long-term conditions including those who are likely to have a long-term health condition that will persist for at least six months and where there is a need for continuing management, although this does not have to be limited to management with medication.”