I WANT to express my dismay at the announcement that NHS prescription charges in England will rise by 20p in April and again next year.

The prescription charge is £7.85, so the rise will take it beyond £8. While the impact may not be felt too harshly for a one-off prescription, what about those of us on medications for the rest of our lives and therefore having to pay prescription charges throughout a year?

There are some people with chronic conditions who do not have to pay. But that is not the case with all lifelong conditions and there are those like myself, who have to pay.

It would be different if I was living in Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland – which have all scrapped prescription charges – or if I was on low income or aged over 60.

A BBC report stated that 90 per cent dispensed are free of charge. But I’m not one of those.

I’m a normal worker on an average salary who contributes tax and national insurance every month, which goes towards the NHS. I look after myself and take my medication correctly with the aim of ensuring I stay well and can continue to contribute to society.

As it stands, I’m on medication for life and have been since my 20s. I sometimes wonder that if prescription charges continue how much I will pay out for medication in the next 30 years while still also regularly contributing to the tax man.

I find it difficult to see any fairness under this current system. It feels like paying an extra tax for having a chronic illness when all I’m trying to do is stay well.

Andrew,

Moss Bank (Full details supplied)