There are several NHS certificates designed to help reduce or completely cover healthcare costs for those who may be more vulnerable to financial pressures. Whether due to age, pregnancy, a long‑term medical condition or circumstances related to military service, you may be entitled to free prescriptions or support with other NHS charges. Each certificate has its own eligibility criteria and application process, which are explained below.
Free NHS Prescriptions
You are automatically entitled to free NHS prescriptions if:
- You are under 16
- You are aged 16–18 and in full‑time education
- You are aged 60 or over
Some people receiving Universal Credit may also qualify for free prescriptions, although this does not apply to all UC claimants. Your eligibility depends on your income level during your most recent assessment period.
To check whether you qualify, visit: https://www.nhsbsa.nhs.uk/help-nhs-prescription-costs/free-nhs-prescriptions
Pregnancy
How to apply
How long the certificate lasts
- It is valid for 12 months from your baby’s due date or 12 months from the birth, whichever you prefer.
- If your baby arrives after the due date, you can request an extension.
- If your baby is born prematurely, the expiry date stays the same as the original expected due date.
This certificate covers all NHS prescriptions and helps reduce the cost of other maternity-related healthcare needs.
Medical Conditions
If you have a long‑term medical condition, you may be eligible for a Medical Exemption Certificate, which entitles you to free NHS prescriptions and support with costs for services normally paid.
The certificate is valid for five years and can be renewed.
You may qualify if you have one of the following conditions:
A permanent fistula (e.g., cecostomy, colostomy, ileostomy, laryngostomy) requiring continuous surgical dressing or an appliance
Hypoadrenalism (such as Addison’s disease) requiring essential substitution therapy
Diabetes insipidus or other forms of hypopituitarism
Diabetes mellitus requiring medication (not controlled by diet alone)
Hypoparathyroidism
Myasthenia gravis
Myxoedema (severe hypothyroidism requiring hormone replacement)
Epilepsy requiring continuous anticonvulsive therapy
A physical disability that prevents you from going out without help from another person
Current cancer, or treatment for cancer, the effects of cancer, or the effects of cancer therapy
How to Apply
Armed Forces
If you have been injured or disabled while serving in the armed forces, you may be eligible for support through the:
War Pension Scheme (WPS)
Armed Forces Compensation Scheme (AFCS)
If you receive support under either scheme, you may be entitled to a War Pension Exemption Certificate, giving you free NHS prescriptions and access to other services without cost when the treatment relates to your accepted condition.
You may also claim reimbursement for:
NHS dental treatment
NHS travel costs
Sight tests
Glasses or contact lenses
These must relate directly to the injury or disability covered by your WPS or AFCS award.
How to Apply
To apply for WPS or AFCS, contact Veterans UK: https://www.gov.uk/government/organisations/veterans-uk
For health‑cost queries related to these schemes, visit: https://www.nhsbsa.nhs.uk/check-if-youre-eligible-help/war-pension-scheme-and-armed-forces-compensation-scheme
