Posted 24 July 2017
NHS England has announced plans to stop paying for prescriptions for treatments that it considers “ineffective, over-priced and low value.” A formal public consultation has been launched on proposed guidelines.
[Items which should not routinely be prescribed in primary care: A Consultation on guidance for CCGs. NHS England, July 21, 2017]
The list includes homeopathic products, glucosamine, chondroitin, herbal products, lutein, certain antioxidants, omega-3 fatty acids (some uses), gluten-free foods, and more than 3,200 nonprescription drugs.
[NHS England launches action plan to drive out wasteful and ineffective drug prescriptions, saving NHS over £190 million a year. NHS England news release, July 21, 2017]
Public comments are welcome until October 21.
Source: Consumer Health Digest #17-29, July 23, 2017
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