Free Prescriptions for Cancer Patients

SCN Patient Information Leaflet (1,468kb PDF)

Exemption from Prescription
Charges

Since 1st April 2009 cancer patients in England have been eligible for free prescriptions. All patients undergoing treatment for cancer, including the effects of cancer or the effects of current or previous cancer treatment can now apply for an exemption certificate.

What does the Exemption
Certificate cover?

The certificate will give exemption from NHS prescription charges for cancer patients in respect of all prescription
items, not just those for cancer, which are dispensed on or after 1st April 2009.

The new medical exemption is not intended for patients who have been treated and are now apparently clear of
cancer where no further treatment is planned. In these cases, treatment does not include routine follow ups with planned discharge at a later date.

How do I apply?

Application for an exemption certificate should only be made once a diagnosis of cancer has been made using form FP92A. The form can be provided by your GP, hospital doctor (Consultant) or service doctor and must be countersigned by them.

These forms are also available from the chemotherapy department, radiotherapy department and your Clinical Nurse Specialist. Patients who are waiting to receive their exemption certificate will be able to get a refund for any prescription charges for items dispensed after 1st April
2009.

To obtain a refund a receipt form FP57 should be obtained from the pharmacy at the time of payment.