This story was first published in digitalhealth.net
GPs advised to stop prescribing for minor illnesses
Somerset CCG is launching a drive to prevent GPs from prescribing drugs for minor illnesses, with a restriction on products such as throat-sprays, hair removing cream, and coughs and cold remedies.
The NHS Somerset CCG’s governing body has given the green light to the recommendation that GPs should cease prescribing products for minor ailments more suitable for 'self-care non-formulary' from 1 December.
The list of 25 types of products that GPs will be stopped from prescribing also include pain killers, indigestion remedies, vitamin supplements (including vitamin D), head lice lotions, nappy rash creams and homeopathic remedies.
The CCG is encouraging patients to visit their pharmacy first and self-care for minor ailments.
Dr Ed Ford, interim chairman of NHS Somerset CCG, said: “This difficult decision has been reached after a comprehensive review of the cost effectiveness of all areas of GP Prescribing.
“We also accepted the recommendation from the CCG’s Prescribing and Medicines Management Committee who concluded that continuing to spend over £3 million each year on such products was not a cost effective use of NHS resources.”
Dr Ford added: “We will instead promote greater self-care by patients supported by health advice from all healthcare professionals including community pharmacies.”
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