Can I pay later for a prescription?

unionjackboy

I’m currently overdrawn and waiting for payday last weekday of the month (Friday) and wondering if I go to the doctors today for what I feel is an ear infection, will I have to pay for a prescription there and then, or can I agree to pay end of the week?

I don’t qualify for any free prescriptions, and feel this will be a one off prescription needed.

My Condition is that my left ear feels blocked, but it first occurred Saturday night while in a club I suddenly lost my hearing. I can feel a pressure but the usual ear popping methods aren’t working, so feel the need to seek medical attention. I can very faintly hear through it, but it’s very noticeable if I click my fingers by my left ear compared to my right.

Alternatively does anyone feel I may not even be prescribed anything, or can I refuse a prescription and find an alternative at a supermarket or even a home remedy? 

la531983

As for the practical side of the question, then no, you would  have to pay for it there and then, you cant fraudulently tick one of the boxes saying you dont have to pay and then return in 4 days time to settle up.

Maybe be worth looking into getting a credit card for emergencies, obviously ensure you clear the balance every month.

unionjackboy

Thanks, the 0% cards are a very good option and would be paid off within a week. Had looked at a short term loan but all the advice here suggests never to go that route and a card I can use long term or short and TBH I’d probably cut it up and bin it to avoid over using it

Spoonie_Turtle

On the matter of prescriptions, if you go to the doctor and are prescribed something, you don't have to pick up the prescribed item there and then, you can go for it at a later date.  Obviously it's not advisable to delay treating something urgent (e.g. an infection, if prescribed antibiotics) but it is an option if medically it would be okay to delay obtaining the item.

MSE_James

We've removed some replies from this thread. Please keep to the money-related elements of the OP's question, as per our rules on medical advice, which are explained in further detail here.