If you’re planning to travel or live outside the UK, it’s important to understand how this affects your NHS prescriptions.
Travelling Abroad for Up to 3 Months
- Medication Supply: The NHS can provide up to a 3-month supply of your regular medications to cover your time abroad.
- Preparation: Before you leave, check how to obtain your medications in the country you’re visiting.
Travelling Abroad for More Than 3 Months
- NHS Responsibility: The NHS’s duty to prescribe medications ends if you’re away from the UK for more than 3 months.
- Medication Supply: You can receive enough medication to last until you reach your destination and arrange for local medical care.
- Local Arrangements: Plan to obtain ongoing medical care and prescriptions in your new country of residence.
Important Considerations
- Medication Regulations: Research the rules for bringing medications into your destination country.
- Returning for Prescriptions: It’s not appropriate to return to the UK solely to obtain medications or to have someone else request prescriptions on your behalf.
Travel Vaccinations and Medications
- Vaccines: Some travel vaccines, like hepatitis B and Japanese encephalitis, aren’t provided by the NHS for travel purposes.
- “Just-in-Case” Medications: Medications such as anti-diarrhoeals for potential travel-related issues aren’t typically prescribed by the NHS.
Planning Ahead
- Consult Your GP: Discuss your travel plans with your GP well in advance to ensure you have the necessary medications and information.
- Medical Records: Consider obtaining a summary of your medical history and a list of current medications to share with healthcare providers abroad.
By understanding these guidelines, you can ensure a smooth transition in managing your health while abroad.