The NHS provides healthcare services for residents of the United Kingdom. Here are some quick answers about getting discounts with the NHS:
What is the NHS?
The NHS (National Health Service) is the public healthcare system in the UK that provides medical services to UK residents at reduced or no cost. It is funded by the government through tax payments.
Does the NHS offer discounts?
Yes, the NHS offers several discounts and exemptions to help relieve the cost of healthcare for certain groups and services. Some key NHS discounts include:
- Free prescriptions – People over 60, under 16, on low incomes, pregnant women, and those with certain medical conditions can get free NHS prescriptions.
- Dental – Some people on low incomes can get free or reduced cost NHS dental treatment.
- Glasses/contacts – People on low incomes, children under 16 or 19 if in full-time education, and some other groups can get free NHS eye tests and discounted glasses or contact lenses.
- Travel costs – People on low incomes receiving some benefits can get help with NHS travel costs to receive treatment.
Who is eligible for NHS discounts?
The main groups eligible for NHS discounts include:
- Seniors over 60 years old
- Children under 16 years old (under 19 if in full-time education for dental/optical)
- Pregnant women and those who’ve had a baby in previous 12 months
- Unemployed individuals receiving relevant benefits
- Those on low incomes receiving tax credits or Universal Credit
- Individuals with certain medical conditions
- NHS staff, care leavers, war pensioners, and more based on circumstances.
How do I show eligibility for NHS discounts?
To receive NHS discounts and exemptions, you typically need to show documentation that proves your eligibility such as:
- Proof of age
- NHS exemption certificate
- NHS Low Income scheme HC2 certificate
- NHS Tax Credit Exemption certificate
- NHS Maternity Exemption certificate
- Prescription prepayment certificate
- Benefits paperwork
Contact the NHS Business Services Authority if you need help obtaining documentation.
What key services have NHS discounts?
The main services offering NHS discounts include:
- Prescriptions – free for 60+, under 16, pregnant, on low incomes, have medical condition
- Dental – free or reduced cost treatment available
- Eyecare – free eye tests and discounted glasses/contacts
- Travel – help with travel costs to receive treatment
- Wigs/fabric supports – free for cancer patients, alopecia, other conditions
Other services like hospital parking, assisted conception, respite care, etc. may also offer reduced costs.
How much could I save with NHS discounts?
The amount you could save depends on your eligibility. But to give an idea:
- Prescriptions – £9.35 per item without discount
- Dental – Band 1 course of treatment £23.80 without discount
- Eye test – £25.50 without discount
- Single vision glasses – £38.80 without discount
So over a year, discounts could save you hundreds of pounds.
Conclusion
The NHS provides a number of discounts and exemptions that allow eligible groups such as seniors, young people, those on low incomes, and those with certain conditions to access healthcare services at reduced or no cost. Significant savings can be made on prescriptions, dental care, eye tests and glasses, travel costs and other services. Check if you qualify for NHS discounts to help relieve the burden of healthcare expenses.
FAQs about NHS Discounts
Do students get NHS discounts?
Students aged 16-18 in full-time education can get free NHS dental treatment and free NHS eye tests and discounted glasses/contacts. Students over 18 do not automatically get discounts but can qualify based on low income or other eligibility criteria.
Do children get free dental with NHS?
Yes, NHS dental care is free for children under 16 years old. Children under 18 also get free NHS dental treatment if they are in qualifying full-time education.
How can OAPs get help with NHS costs?
People over 60 get free NHS prescriptions and NHS eye tests. With dental care and glasses/contacts, OAPs on low incomes can qualify for full/partial help with costs. OAPs receiving Pension Credit can get free NHS dental treatment. Help is also available with travel costs.
Do I pay for dentist if on Universal Credit?
If you receive Universal Credit and have no earned income or make under a certain threshold, you can get full or partial help with NHS dental charges. You’ll need to show your dentist evidence that you receive Universal Credit.
Can you get cheap glasses on the NHS?
Yes, if you are eligible for an NHS eye test, you can get discounted glasses or contact lenses on the NHS. Options include basic single vision specs for under £40 or basic bifocals for under £75 when selected from the NHS range.
Is there any NHS discount for private care?
No, there are no NHS discounts available for private healthcare services. NHS discounts only apply to services provided by the NHS and don’t cover private clinics, hospitals, dentists, opticians, etc.
Getting Help with NHS Healthcare Costs
Here are some resources if you need help getting NHS discounts or managing healthcare costs:
- NHS Low Income Scheme – Provides evidence for NHS discounts if on low income. Apply via NHS Business Services Authority.
- NHS Help with Health Costs – Detailed information on who qualifies for NHS discounts and how to apply.
- Citizens Advice Bureau – Guidance on accessing free or reduced cost healthcare.
- NHS Community Pharmacist – Can advise on getting free prescriptions.
- NHS Complaints Advocacy – Help understanding charges and exemptions.
Don’t struggle alone – reach out to these services to see if you qualify for financial help accessing NHS care.