Currently in Dorset, people with a diagnosis of either coeliac disease or dermatitis herpetiformis can receive an NHS prescription for gluten-free bread or flour mixes, subject to normal NHS prescription charge rules. In line with other health regions in England, NHS Dorset is considering changing this, meaning that people would no longer be able to obtain these items on an NHS prescription.
Why gluten-free food is needed for people with coeliac disease and dermatitis herpetiformis
These are chronic inflammatory autoimmune diseases of the digestive system and skin caused by a reaction to gluten; a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye. There is no cure for these conditions, but following a gluten-free diet helps control symptoms and prevent long-term complications. More information is available on the NHS website.
Why are NHS Dorset considering changes to prescription availability
To provide high quality medical care for as many people as possible, the NHS is constantly looking for ways to work differently, to ensure the best use of available NHS finances. NHS Dorset believes that this change will allow the better allocation of resources to meet the needs of the wider Dorset population and free up time, currently required for the generation of these prescriptions, for healthcare staff to provide other services. With a wide selection of gluten free products available for purchase they are no longer considered to be specialist; therefore, do not need to be issued on a NHS prescription, giving people freedom of choice.
Survey
To read more information about this proposed change, and to take an anonymous survey to provide your feedback, follow the link to the NHS Dorset website. The survey will be open until 20th August 2025.