JSA(C) erroneous NHS prescription claim

teapott

I'm a recent contribution based JSA claimant for the first time (starting in December). Until recently I didn't realise that there was a difference in the benefit, i.e. between contribution and income based JSA. Having cause to visit my GP I thought I was entitled to free prescriptions as I got JSA(C) and ticked the box. Sadly yesterday I discovered on the NHS choices website that I was not and free prescriptions are only allowed for JSA(I). Consequently I returned to the surgery, admitted my error and was able to pay of 3 recent prescription charges. However, there is still a single claim dating back to December which they have already sent off.

I am aware of the crack down on false claimants and am worried what will happen now. I've tried to find a NHS contact online and offer to pay but no contact seems relevant. I am also unsure whether it is now too late and if I do contact them, my enquiry will be picked up by someone who gives it no attention and I will just be hit with the penalty charge anyway. I don't like being dishonest and just leaving it, but I could really do without being hit with a penalty charge.

Any advice? Anybody being in a similar position / being caught out by prescription penalties?

help4help2013

you could try calling these they might be be ale to give the relevant info or department to pay for that prescription

NHS Prescription Services


Phone: 0300 330 1349 or 0191 279 0568

teapott

Thanks, I called them but they didn't know. They referred me to the local CCG (Clinical Commissioning Group), who also couldn't help and put me through to NHS England finance. They in turn couldn't help! But they did tell me to just hang fire, if /when the problem is detected they'll contact the pharmacy (surgery in my case) in the first instance. As I've already gone back there and advised them of the problem, then they should realise it was a genuine mistake and not issue a fine and just get me to reimburse the cost.

nannytone_2

are you single or part of a couple?
if you have a partner, are they working?
if household income is low then you may wualify for free prescriptions anyway.
fill in an HX1 form for help with medical costs

superbigal36

Emigrate to Scotland.

teapott

Thanks, I am separated and have ordered a HC1 form.

Torry_Quine

I think you have behaved very honourably as many people wouldn't have paid retrospectively.