Group hits out at Government's cheaper medicine plan

Mar 15 2010 by Helen Rae, The Journal

“A change in medication can affect a person’s quality of life, and I feel people’s health could be negatively impacted upon because the generic drugs may not be suitable for all.

“If this scheme is introduced this would mean that a pharmacist would have to replace a patient’s branded drug with a generic substitute, which may not be as effective. People’s health must not be put at risk and there is a danger these plans will do that.”

Patients can ‘opt-out’ of the proposals but Mr Bedlington said, due to teething problems, there may be instances when a change will occur without the knowledge of the consultant or patient.

Ministers believe that just switching half of those drugs for which a generic version exists could save £20.5m a year. But official estimates show that the scheme could cost £4.5m a year to run, on the top of £9m in start-up costs.

Mr Bedlington added: “Government is putting money first and patients’ welfare second, which is not right. A change in medication will undoubtedly cause many people stress and anxiety, particularly those of an older generation.

“It seems ridiculous that the Government appears quite content in cutting healthcare funds, despite the detrimental impact it will have on patients.”

Public consultations on the proposed changes are being held around the country until the end of this month.

A Department of Health spokesperson said: “Patient safety is always our top priority.

“With valuable input from stakeholders, this consultation includes options by limiting generic medicine substitution if appropriate and always giving prescribers the flexibility of opting out.

“This will help them to continue to tailor treatment to an individual patient’s clinical need according to their medical history.”