Government Response

The Government responded to this petition on Monday 20th February 2017

It is for Clinical Commissioning Groups, through their local prescribing policies, to decide what to limit on prescription.

It is for Clinical Commissioning Groups (CCGs), through their local prescribing policies, to decide what to limit on prescription

Croydon Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG) has confirmed that its decision to approve recommendations to stop the prescribing of gluten-free products and baby milk were made in the context of the financial pressures the local NHS is facing and the need to make savings in the next financial year.

The CCG undertook public engagement on the proposals prior to making its decision, engaging face to face with over 300 individual local residents, patients and professionals at more than 30 sessions. A total of 346 written responses were received through the online and paper survey. The CCG advises that the response to the prescribing proposals was predominantly positive, with over 70% of respondents agreeing that the CCG should stop providing self-care medications.

Croydon CCG recognises the concerns of those people who currently receive these products on prescription and has advised it will work closely with local communities, Croydon pharmacists and GPs to support people to find affordable alternatives.

Department of Health