Over the past two years we have heard stories from patients about penalty charges from the NHS Business Services Authority.
Penalty notices are sent to patients who have incorrectly claimed free dental or prescription charges. The charges include the cost of the treatment and also a penalty fine of up to £100.00.
Why did we cover this issue?
Healthwatch Kirklees think that people who are most vulnerable within our local area are receiving penalty fines incorrectly.
UPDATE: Next Steps
Healthwatch Kirklees has sent Mr X’s story to the NHS Business Services Authority for them to review and provide a response.
UPDATE: April 2018
We are currently working with the British Dental Association about this issue.
We have also written to Equality and Human Rights Commission (EHRC) to tell them we think that people are being unfairly fined.
We are awaiting a response.