Expert shares ‘prescription price hack everyone should know'
Some simple requests before you pay could cut down the cost of the exact same medications
With disabled people potentially facing a future without Personal Independence Payment (PIP), counting every penny becomes crucial. In an effort to help, Superdrug's Pharmacy Superintendent has divulged several top "money-saving hacks" that could see the costs of prescriptions significantly reduced.
Niamh McMillan said: "One of the easiest ways to save money on private prescriptions is by choosing generic medications instead of their branded equivalents. The generic medication normally has the same ingredients and therefore offers the same benefits, at a fraction of the cost."
She went on to highlight that most pharmacies provide a robust variety of generic medication which their pharmacists can advise on. Allowing customers to switch to more affordable options without compromising quality or effectiveness.
Being careful with your medication doses can also hold some less obvious savings. McMillan explained: "Managing prescriptions carefully can help avoid unnecessary refills and can also help reduce costs.
'Talk to your pharmacist to ensure you are taking the right medication at the correct dosage, to help prevent waste. Superdrug's Pharmacy app helps patients to be more organised, allowing them to order repeat NHS prescriptions and set medication reminders.'
Many individuals may be unnecessarily paying for their prescriptions too. Certain people, conditions and medications are provided free of charge in England.
This includes items such as birth control pills, individuals over the age of 60, those on certain income-based benefits and individuals with medical exemption certificates. This certificate is given to individuals with specific conditions like diabetes or cancer.
McMillan said: "Check with your Pharmacy team whether you qualify (for free prescriptions). They can also guide you through the application process.
Free prescriptions and medical exemption certificates are different from prepayment certificates. Although these can also result in substantial savings.
The pharmacist explained: "A Prescription Prepayment Certificate, otherwise referred to as a PPC, is a cost-effective way to manage NHS prescription costs for those living in England, who require multiple medications. By paying a one-time fee, individuals can get unlimited prescriptions for a set period, usually three or 12 months, potentially saving significant money."
These certificates only save money if you have a certain amount of prescription medication that you pay for. A three-month PPC won't be much use if you have less than three prescribed medications in that time, for example.
By opting for a 12-month certificate, individuals who require more than 11 prescribed items annually can make significant savings. For those with two prescribed items per month, this translates to a yearly saving of £120. Meanwhile, people with four or more prescribed items per month can expect to save over £350 annually.
McMillan said: "A PPC can reduce the burden of individual NHS prescription charges, ensuring continued access to necessary treatments without the worry of additional costs each time. This is especially beneficial for people on long-term NHS medication, or with chronic conditions."
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