We are aware that NHS North Somerset Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG) and South Gloucestershire CCG are reviewing their policy on access to gluten free food on prescription and are asking local people for their views.
The CCGs currently follow the National Prescribing Guidelines and prescribe up to 18 units (depending on age and gender) of gluten free staple foods.
However, the CCGs are now reviewing their policy on access to gluten free foods on prescription.
They are proposing to stop prescribing to adults over 18 years and limit prescribing for children to certain foods such as bread and pasta.
Coeliac UK communication with the CCGs
We are 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 17 March 2017 and we would encourage you to respond to the consultation to make sure your voice is heard. The survey can be accessed online at https://www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/KLTTFFH
Alternatively, you can email the CCG to share your views ([email protected]). If you are unable to complete the survey online, you can request a paper copy of the survey by calling the CCG on 0117 947 4435 or by writing to FREEPOST RTEY-GAZK-LYBR, NHS South Gloucestershire CCG, Unit 11-14, Corum Office Park, Warmley, BS30 8FJ.
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 who would be affected by the proposed 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.