We are aware that NHS Richmond Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG) is reviewing their policy on access to gluten-free food on prescription and is asking local people for their views.
The CCG currently follows the National Prescribing Guidelines and prescribe up to 18 units (depending on age and gender) of gluten-free staple foods.
However, the CCG is now reviewing their policy and is proposing to remove access to gluten-free foods on prescription.
Coeliac UK communication with the CCG
We are extremely concerned by the proposal and will be submitting a formal response in support of continuing access to gluten-free food on prescription. Our arguments will focus on the importance of gluten-free staples on prescription to support management and adherence to the gluten-free diet in view of cost and availability issues.
Research shows that gluten-free staple foods are not readily available to purchase in budget supermarkets and convenience stores and that gluten-free staple foods are 3-4 times more expensive than gluten containing equivalents. We will also be asking local healthcare professionals for their support.
Have your say
The engagement period will run until 3 February 2017, however the CCG has stated that feedback from local people will be considered in Richmond CCG’s governing body meeting in public on 17 January 2017.
We would therefore encourage you to respond before the 17 January to make sure your voice is heard.
The survey can be accessed online at:
https://www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/choosingwiselyrichmond
The ‘Choosing Well’ document mentioned in the survey can be found at:
http://www.richmondccg.nhs.uk/Consultation/Choosing%20Wisely%20for%20Richmond.pdf
If you would like to request a hard copy of the consultation document you can do so by calling the CCG (020 8734 3000) or emailing ([email protected]).
We would also encourage you to write to your local MP, we have a sample letter on our website which you can use, or please feel free to write your own letter explaining how the proposed changes would affect you.
Share your story
As part of our work in opposing prescription cuts, we are looking for people affected by these prescription cuts to act as case studies.
This will enable us to give examples to the media of how this policy change would affect people with coeliac disease.
To become a case study or to find out more about interview opportunities please call us on 0333 332 2033.
We will provide updates as the situation progresses through direct mailings, Crossed Grain magazine and on our website.