I've started my cancer treatment over 2 years ago, I didn't take any medications prior to my cancer diagnosis as was very fit and healthy. During the last 2 years I've been taking a lot of medications, most of which come as repeat prescriptions from my GP, these include alendronic acid, medroxyprogestrone, steroids, tamsulosin and others, all cancer related. For the first 6 months I was paying per prescription, until one of the pharmacists who got to recognise me advised I should get a yearly prepayment certificate (at just over £100), which with the amount of medication I was getting saves hundreds of pounds a year. I have since bought two yearly prepayment certificates.
This week I found that as an active cancer patient, I should be exempt from paying, and all I need is to fill a form at my GP. I completed the form today, which took about 2 minutes.
It is very frustrating that none of the medical professionals over the last 2 years thought of mentioning this, I myself never thought of questioning the need to pay for my medication.
They couldn't tell me today if I can be refunded for what I've paid, it sounds like I may be able to get back the equivalent cost of the time remaining on my current prepayment certificate, but probably not what I've spent over the last 2 years.
I am fortunate that I can afford these costs, though it is still frustrating.
Thought I'd post this here, both as a rant, and in case there are others in active treatment that are not aware they can get their medication for free (in NHS England)
Regards
G
