Isle Of Wight Consultation Over Gluten-Free Foods On The NHS

We spend more per head on providing gluten-free foods than any other Clinical Commissioning Group in England, but the Isle of Wight’s top doctor says there is “little evidence” that the NHS provision helps Islanders follow a gluten-free diet.

The Isle of Wight Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG) is reviewing its policy on prescribing gluten-free foods, because it says it wants to prioritise “healthcare…to reflect the current needs of the population”.

It has led to concern among those who are allocated an amount of gluten-free food. While some Islanders argue that they could not afford to buy products without the help of the NHS, others are worried that that it might signal the start of cuts in other areas.

Island mum-of-two Roxy Davey told Isle of Wight Radio that the prescription will help her bridge the gap between her son’s diagnosis in August (it took years of appointments and tummy aches to get it) and the time when she feels confident about catering for his needs. She says it has also allowed her try try different brands to find the ones her son likes best, pointing out that gluten-free products do not taste the same.

Meanwhile, the CCG argues that gluten-free food is now much more readily available in supermarkets and is more affordable.

It is considering re-allocating the £226,000 it uses to fund food for coeliac disease sufferers, while providing alternative support. The CCG on the Island has an overall annual funding allocation of £233.6 million, so its spend on gluten-free food is around 0.11%.

CCG Governing Body Chair Dr John Rivers said:

“This year, the Isle of Wight will spend £226,000 on the provision of gluten-free foods such as bread, pasta, pizza bases and biscuits: More per head that any other CCG in England, yet there is little evidence that the provision of these foods on the NHS is a key factor that motivates people to follow a gluten-free diet.

“In light of the clinical evidence the CCG Governing Body has decided to launch a public consultation…[to] explore what people think about stopping the provision of gluten-free foods on the NHS here on the Island.”

You can take part in the consultation via this link.

Article Resources:http://iwradio.co.uk/