End to coeliac bread prescription in Leicestershire ‘a kick in teeth’

The ICB said the decision followed a “lengthy” consultation with the public, patient groups and medical practitioners, which sought the views of 1,468 people.

But it has admitted the majority of people consulted disagreed with the decision to stop providing up to eight units of gluten-free bread or flour on prescription.

The ICB added the change will move the area in line with other parts of the NHS in the East Midlands and it will provide additional support for those with the condition, including advice and guidance on diet, lifestyle and staying healthy.

Dr Nil Sanganee, chief medical officer, said the ICB “fully appreciates the impact” of “what is a very difficult decision” taken at a time of significant financial pressure on the NHS.

Dr Sanganee said: “For coeliac disease, there is now a much wider range of specific gluten-free products available than previously, in addition to the wide variety of naturally gluten-free food including fresh fruit and vegetables, meat, poultry, fish, cheese and eggs.

“It is possible to eat a gluten-free diet without the need for any specialist dietary foods.”

Charity Coeliac UK has called for the decision to be reversed.