13 December 2016

NHS Scarborough and Ryedale Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG) is reviewing its policy on access to gluten-free food on prescription.

The CCG currently prescribe up to 18 units a month (depending on age and gender) of gluten-free bread, pasta and flour. However, the CCG is now reviewing its policy and is proposing to stop the prescribing of gluten-free products for patients over the age of 18.

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 consultation is open until 2 January and we would encourage you to respond to make sure your voice is heard. 

• The survey can be accessed online at: https://www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/KHM7N8L
• If you would like to request a hard copy of the consultation document you can do so by calling the CCG on 01723 232473 or emailing scrccg.engagement@nhs.net
• We would also encourage you to write to your local MP, we have a sample letter, or please feel free to write your own letter explaining how the proposed changes would affect you.

As part of our work in opposing prescription cuts, we are looking for people affected by these 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.