Doctors in England have increased prescriptions for over-the-counter items like baby formula, shampoo, and multivitamins by up to 80% in two years as a response to the cost-of-living crisis. This change signifies a shift from NHS guidelines that discouraged prescribing common goods, reflecting the urgent need to support vulnerable patients amid financial struggles.
Official NHS guidance restricts prescriptions of basic items, yet GPs are now using their discretion to prescribe them in vital cases, showcasing the healthcare system's adaptability to patients' increasing needs.
Professor Kamila Hawthorne emphasized that GPs are committed to responsible prescribing, stating that no doctor would endorse such actions unless there's substantial justification, highlighting the ethical considerations involved amidst rising socioeconomic challenges.
The Independent advocates for quality journalism accessible to all, arguing against paywalls, as they strive to cover critical issues such as healthcare accessibility amid the cost-of-living crisis.
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