Introduction of free prescriptions for cancer patients in England

Commenting on the introduction of free prescriptions for cancer patients in England, Michelle Rowley, Campaigns Manager at Macmillan Cancer Support, said:

"We are delighted to see the end of prescription charges for cancer patients after our continuous campaigning. Ending this tax on illness will transform the lives of around 150,000 people living with cancer who struggle to pay for prescribed treatments. It's estimated that cancer patients will save more than £100 a year which will make a big difference especially as most people's income drops significantly after a cancer diagnosis but the extra costs mount up.

"We urge all cancer patients to apply for a medical exemption certificate by collecting an application form from their GP surgery or oncology clinic."

Find out more about the prescription charges campaign.

For further information, please contact:
Rebecca Openshaw, Macmillan Cancer Support
Tel: 020 7840 4699 (out of hours 07801 307068)
Ropenshaw@macmillan.org.uk

About Macmillan Cancer Support

Macmillan Cancer Support improves the lives of people affected by cancer, providing practical, medical, emotional and financial support.  Working alongside people affected by cancer, Macmillan works to improve cancer care. One in three of us will get cancer. Two million of us are living with it. If you are affected by cancer Macmillan can help.

For more information about Macmillan Cancer Support, visit www.macmillan.org.uk or freephone 0800 500 800 for an information pack.