The cost of prescriptions increases to £9 today and many of our young people feel strongly that they should be exempt from charges. In support of their views, CLDF is part of the Prescription Charges Coalition, a group of nearly 40 organisations campaigning to end prescription charges for people with long-term medical conditions. Here, Joanna, explains why it’s something she feels strongly about:
Twenty-two year old Joanna was born with the rare and serious liver conditions, neonatal haemochromatosis and portal hypertension. She received a life-saving liver transplant when she was 19 days old but unfortunately her liver is failing again and she is now on the waiting list for a second transplant.
Determined to make the most of life, Joanna is currently working in publications marketing but will be returning to university this year to do a Masters degree.
“I have to take four types of medication every day and I spend £211 a year on prescriptions. I pay for my prescriptions as and when, because it’s really difficult to find the lump sum you need to buy the pre-payment certificate” she says.
“If I didn’t have my medication it would be life-threatening, so I can’t risk not picking up a prescription. I’ve had to go into my overdraft sometimes to afford it.
“Luckily, my family have been able to step in to help me sometimes when I’m struggling to pay, but that’s not an option for everyone.
“It angers me that me that I have to spend this as people with other lifelong conditions – type 1 diabetes for example – get free medication. I was born with this condition so why should I be financially penalised for an illness that is not my fault?”
You can find more about the Prescription Charges Coalition HERE
