Free medication for people with Parkinson's

My drugs are my lifeline. Without them I would have no movement at all. So why should I have to pay?

Prescription charges for Parkinson's:

England. Charge
Scotland. Free
Wales. Free
Ireland. Free

There are numerous medical conditions whereas you qualify for free prescriptions unfortunately if you reside in England and suffer from Parkinson's then this is not considered as one of these conditions!

Some medicines you can only get by prescription, usually from your GP.
In England each prescribed item currently costs £8.20.
Prescription charges were abolished in Wales in 2007, in Northern Ireland in 2010 and in Scotland in 2011.

Why are there varying standards across the country?

I believe that all people with Parkinson's and other long-term conditions should be exempt from prescription charges wherever they live in the UK.

Medication is extremely important in helping people with Parkinson's manage their symptoms and continue to lead independent lives.

People with Parkinson's are often required to pay multiple prescription charges, due to the number of medications prescribed for the management of a wide range of symptoms.

A list of conditions that qualify for exemption from prescription charges does exist in England but has barely changed since its creation in 1968, despite significant medical and technological changes.

Particularly concerned about the additional financial hardship that charges present for younger people with Parkinson's. For example, the income rules on free prescriptions can mean those on incapacity benefits still have to pay for prescription charges.

If people can't afford their prescribed medication their symptoms may get worse. And this may lead to a greater cost to health and social services.

This is a campaign for a Prescription Charges Coalition to ensure people with all long-term conditions – including Parkinson’s – are exempt from prescription charges, wherever they live in the UK