NHS and Homeopathy

Thank you for contacting me about homeopathy.

I am encouraged that the Government is committed to developing an NHS which is responsive to the needs and wishes of patients and which enables patients to play an active role in managing their health conditions. I understand that complementary therapies can be attractive to a number of patients, and may feature in a range of services that local NHS organisations provide.

It is the responsibility of local NHS organisations to make decisions on the commissioning and funding of any healthcare treatments for patients, taking account of issues to do with safety, clinical and cost effectiveness and the availability of appropriate practitioners. I am aware that Clinical Commissioning Groups may have specific policies on the extent to which their patients can have access to such therapies.

At the same time, with rising health demands, I believe that the Government has a duty to make sure that NHS funds are spent on the most effective treatments. I am aware that the Government is considering whether or not homeopathic products should be available through NHS prescriptions. In July 2017, the NHS launched a formal public consultation into new guidelines which state that a range of treatments - including homeopathy - are either wasteful or ineffective, and should not be prescribed.

The consultation runs until 21st October, and can be viewed at the following webpage:
https://www.engage.england.nhs.uk/consultation/items-routinely-prescribed/

Thank you again for taking the time to contact me.