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How to claim
help with health charges if you don't qualify automatically
It's best to apply for help with health charges before you need the treatment.
Reclaiming the money after you've had treatment is a lot more bother and
in some cases refunds aren't available.
Fill in form HC1 from your local Benefits Agency or Post Office. If you
have trouble filling in the form ask a friend, Citizens Advice Bureau
or your local Benefits Agency office for help.
The Health Benefits Division will assess your financial position and work
out whether you have to pay some, all or none of the charges. If you have
more than £8,000 savings you won't be entitled to any help.
If you are entitled to full help you will be given certificate HC2. This
states that you are entitled to all health benefits: free prescriptions,
dental treatment, sight tests, vouchers for glasses, wigs, fabric supports
and travel to hospital.
If you are entitled to some help with charges, you will be given certificate
HC3. This states the maximum amount you will have to pay for any one course
of health care (for example a course of dental treatment or a sight test).
Take your certificate with you on all visits to the dentist, optician
and hospital.
New claims on grounds of low income must be made ever 12 months. This
allows the Health Benefits Division to reassess your circumstances.
In general, if you consider your income to be low and your savings are
under £8,000, it's worth claiming for help with charges. If you know you'll
be needing health treatment or will have to travel to hospital in the
near future, make a claim now. There's nothing to lose.
If you have any queries about getting help with health costs, ring Help
the Aged's free service - SeniorLine - 0808 800 6565.  |
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