Question:
I am currently in receipt of Disability Living Allowance (higer-rate
care and lower-rate mobility) as well as Income Support with the
associated disability premiums.
I am aware that I am entitled to free prescriptions because I am on
IS, but does that mean that I will also be entitled to free dental/eye
care too? Someone told me this today, so I thought I'd check it out as
my teeth need work doing on them pretty badly...
If so, how/where do I go about claiming for this?
Answer:
From my experience you just pop in anywhere. Most Dentists and especially
opticians are used to dealing with people on benefits and have all the
necessary forms.
The hardest bit is actually finding a dentist. And when you do find one,
actually getting an appointment within 3 to 4 weeks.
Best all round that you contact your nearest DWP office and ask them - they
will send you either a card or a letter will stop any embarressing
situations - some dentists and eye care depts are getting stricter now.
I'm moving on to Incapacity Benefit. Does this entitle me to free
dental treatment? I'm not interested in the eye bit as I have Graves
Disease and an ulcer in one eye so I'm in and out of hospital anyway
for treatment of that (just keeps getting better, don't it?).
Although for your case it isn't relevant as you are getting Income
Support others may care to note that many are getting DLA mobility
components on the grounds they need help getting around and may also
therefore qualify for free prescriptions as – you have a continuing
physical disability which means you cannot go out without the help of
another person.
I have a sneaky feeling that unless you are on income support and have
exemption due to low income that you cannot get free Dental treatment. I was
refused because hubby had savings but got free Prescriptions due to needing
somebody with me when I go out.
