3 July 2016

Hambleton, Richmondshire and Whitby Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG) and Harrogate and Rural District CCG have launched a joint consultation and are proposing to stop gluten-free prescribing. The CCGs currently follow National Prescribing Guidelines and prescribe up to 18 units (depending on age and gender) of gluten-free bread, pasta, flour, pizza bases and crackers. The CCGs are asking for local people’s opinions on the prescribing of gluten-free food.

We are responding to the CCGs to make a case for gluten-free prescribing. 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.

Have your say

We would encourage you to respond to the consultation to ensure your views are heard. The Hambleton, Richmondshire and Whitby CCG survey can be accessed at www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/TT256XB, and the Harrogate and Rural District CCG survey can be accessed at www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/glutenfreeprescribing. Both surveys are open until 21 July.

We will provide updates as the situation progresses through direct mailings, Crossed Grain magazine and on our website.