Welsh Conservatives have today revealed an ‘alarming’ shortage of NHS low income refund forms in Wales and called for clarity on their availability.
HC5 forms can be used to claim a refund of NHS charges in Wales, including dental treatment, eye tests, glasses, contact lenses or travel costs.
Despite their huge importance, Montgomeryshire Assembly Member Russell George has been told that no forms are currently available.
Following close work with a constituent, Mr George rang a publicised helpline number (available here: http://www.nhsbsa.nhs.uk/HealthCosts/1129.aspx) and was told that ordering would be necessary and no timeline for arrival could be guaranteed.
Some refund forms for England and Scotland are available to download via the above link. There is no option to download forms for Welsh residents.
While online guidance suggests the forms can also be found at Jobcentre Plus offices, NHS hospitals, doctors’ surgeries, dentists or opticians, availability is not guaranteed.
Mr George has written to the Health Minister asking for an explanation on the apparently low availability.
He said:
“This apparent shortage of forms is alarming and will prove both frustrating and distressing for those who need a refund.
“It is my understanding that no forms are currently available via the helpline and I know that they are also extremely difficult to obtain via any other means, particularly in mid Wales.
“That isn’t good enough and I have written to the health minister requesting an urgent update.
“It is the Labour government’s job to keep this system ticking over – for the benefit of all those who need it – and I have demanded clarity on the current shortage.”
Shadow Minister for Health, Darren Millar AM, said:
“These refunds are a vital means of support for many and this apparent shortage is of great concern.
“As well as addressing this problem urgently, Labour ministers should make access to these claim forms much easier.
“If paperwork for England and Scotland can be downloaded online, I see no reason why the same cannot be done in Wales.”