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Cost-cutting measures across NHS surgeries in England have resulted in a significant reduction in the availability of free “over-the-counter” medicines for patients. According to reports from Express.co.uk, patients can still claim free treatment for minor illnesses at participating pharmacies through the NHS Minor Ailment Scheme. However, the number of surgeries offering this benefit is steadily decreasing in England.
While the availability of free over-the-counter medicine remains widespread in Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland, England has seen a more selective approach, limiting the service to certain pharmacies. These cost-cutting measures include basic medications such as paracetamol. In 2022, a consultation by NHS England suggested that restricting free prescriptions for short-term and minor conditions could save the system approximately £190 million annually.
The consultation highlighted that many of these conditions “cure themselves or have no long-term health effects,” leading to the decision to discontinue free prescriptions for certain ailments. As a result, the following common conditions no longer qualify for free, over-the-counter prescriptions in most NHS surgeries in England:
- Sore throat
- Coughs, colds, and nasal congestion
- Mild acne
- Indigestion and heartburn
- Head lice
- Sunburn, and others.
Despite the reduction in availability, patients in England can still access free treatment through specific pharmacies participating in the NHS Minor Ailment Scheme. Certain Boots stores are among those where the service is available. The list of covered medications can vary by location, and patients are encouraged to check with their local pharmacies to confirm what is offered.
Eligibility for the NHS Minor Ailment Scheme remains tied to those who qualify for free prescriptions, such as individuals over the age of 60, those under 16, and others with qualifying conditions or benefits. For clarity, the NHS provides a three-minute tool that allows individuals to check their eligibility for the scheme.
Meanwhile, calls have been made for Chancellor Rachel Reeves to align the age for free prescriptions with the state pension age of 66, rather than the current threshold of 60. Liz Emerson, chief executive of the Intergenerational Foundation, stated, “Aligning free prescriptions with the state pension age would improve intergenerational fairness.” This potential change is one of many being considered as Ms. Reeves prepares to announce the new Labour Government’s Autumn Budget on October 30.
