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Sickle Cell Patients Petition for Prescription Cost Exemption
18 Aug
Summary
- Sickle cell disease causes debilitating symptoms
- Patients face monthly costs for vital medication
- Government says no plans to add SCD to exemption list
As of August 18th, 2025, sickle cell disease (SCD) patients in the UK are advocating for their condition to be added to the NHS prescription cost exemption list. SCD is a group of serious, lifelong health conditions that primarily affect individuals with African or Caribbean heritage, causing painful episodes, increased infection risk, and severe anemia.
Unlike treatments for other chronic illnesses, SCD medications are not currently exempt from prescription charges in England. This has led to concerns that "many patients may not be able to work but still face monthly costs for vital medication." However, the government maintains that "extensive arrangements" are already in place to ensure affordability, including exemptions for low-income individuals and prescription prepayment options.
Despite the petition's growing support, the government has stated there are "no current plans" to review the exemption list and include SCD. They argue that approximately 89% of prescriptions are already dispensed free of charge, and patients may qualify for other financial assistance schemes if needed.
