UK prescription charge changes announced

The UK government has announced a L0.25 ($0.50) increase in the prescription charge, a levy on drugs in England, to reach L7.10 effective April 1. Health Minister Dawn Primarolo said: "In England, 88% of prescription items are free of charge thanks to our extensive exemption arrangements."

Ms Primarolo added that the revenue from the levy is expected to be L435.0 million in the 2008-2009 fiscal year. In addition, some dispensing physicians collect payments that are kept by the local health authorities. Prepaid discount vouchers are also facing increases to L27.85 for three months and L102.50 for a year. The government claims that these offer rebates for 5% of National Health Service patients. However, for a patient with 15 prescriptions a year, the saving is under 4%, having paid in advance and with no refund for part use.