Physios to get prescribing powers

MedWire News: Physiotherapists and podiatrists are set to gain independent prescribing powers from 2014, under proposals unveiled by the Department of Health this week.

The legislation will allow physiotherapists and podiatrists to prescribe within their area of expertise for conditions such as asthma, neurological disorders and rheumatological conditions. However, the powers will only be given to advanced practitioners who undertake a 6-month training programme with the Healthcare Professions Council (HPC).

The RCGP was involved in the consultation and supports the proposed changes. Chair Dr Clare Gerada stated: "We accept the principle of prescribing responsibilities for other healthcare professionals, including podiatrists and physiotherapists, for medications and conditions in which they have specialist expertise. This is demonstrably in the interest of better patient care and efficient use of NHS resources."

The proposed legislation changes follow a consultation last year by the Department of Health and the MHRA, in which the BMA and the RCGP raised concerns about the effect on GPs, such as increased costs and communication problems.

But this week Dr Bill Beeby, Chair of the BMA GPC Prescribing Subcommittee, told GP Online the legislation would be "doctor-friendly" and would have limited impact because funding constraints will lead to a low uptake of training.

The Chartered Society of Physiotherapy, which campaigned for the changes, believes it will benefit GPs. Chair Helena Johnson said in a press statement: "A layer of bureaucracy will also now go and an unnecessary burden will be removed from doctors, with physiotherapists taking full responsibility and accountability for the prescribing decisions they make."

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