Minister defends decision to stop prescribing some medications
The health minister says the decision to stop prescribing medication for conditions his department has described as ‘minor’ is a ‘complicated balancing act’.
From 29 January the Department of Health and Social Care is changing its ‘over the counter’ policy meaning doctors and nurses won’t issue prescriptions if treatment is readily available to buy.
This will affect medication for conditions including thrush, cystitis, colic, head lice, indigestion and mild acne as well as vitamins and some painkillers like paracetamol.
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The Department of Health and Social Care claims these items are often cheaper to buy directly when compared to the current cost of a prescription which is £3.85 per item.
Anybody using over the counter medication as part of the management or treatment of a long-term condition will continue to receive it on prescription.
The policy change comes as it was revealed the DHSC is £30 million over budget.
Lawrie Hooper told Manx Radio his department needs to ensure it's using resources effectively:
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