Prescriptions and cancer

When you have cancer, you're likely to be prescribed medications.

This page has information about prescription charges and applying for a medical exemption certificate to get free prescriptions.

Do I have to pay for prescriptions?

If you live in Scotland, Wales or Northern Ireland NHS prescriptions are free.

In England, you usually have to pay for NHS prescriptions. However, if you have cancer you can get free prescriptions by applying for an exemption certificate.

The exemption certificate will cover all your medications, and not just those related to your cancer. The certificate lasts for 5 years.

How to get an exemption certificate

You will need to complete a form to apply for free prescriptions in England.

You can get the form (FP92A) from your GP, pharmacy or from your hospital team. The hospital doctor or GP will need to sign it for you.

If you're a carer in England, and have health issues of your own, check with your doctor to see if you're also eligible for an exemption certificate.

There is helpful information available from NHS on the NHS website.

We're here with you

Free prescriptions are just one of the ways to help with the financial costs of living with cancer. 

Our Benefits Advisors can help you find out what else you might be entitled to. 

Find your nearest Maggie's for details of how to get in touch.

Last review: Dec 2021 | Next review: Dec 2022