Gluten-free food on prescription

People who are medically diagnosed with coeliac disease can get staples such as bread, pasta, flour mixes on prescription which you can organise with your GP (click here for prescribable list of gluten-free products).  Here are some details, but for more information download our Guide to gluten-free prescriptions here.

• When your doctor tells you that you have coeliac disease or dermatitis herpetiformis (DH) you should get an appointment to see a dietitian who will help you ensure your diet is gluten-free, healthy and balanced.
• You can then make an appointment with your GP to discuss and agree your prescription. Alternatively, your dietitian, practice nurse or pharmacist can give you advice about the
  gluten-free foods available to you on prescription, what you are entitled to and the process involved.
• For repeat prescriptions you will need to order your prescription from your GP surgery – check out their procedures as some surgeries require 48 hours notice and you may need to plan ahead.
• Pick up your prescription and take it to your pharmacist. The pharmacy may need to order-in your request and this may take a couple of days before you can return to collect it.
• If you want to change your prescription at any time you should make an appointment to see your GP or someone else at the surgery that can help you.
• Unless you qualify for free prescriptions, you will be charged for each type of gluten-free food. To save money, you can buy a prepayment certificate, which lasts either 4 months or 12 months. Ask your pharmacist for more information on purchasing a pre-payment certificate or visit the Department of Health website to purchase directly from them.
• To find out the current cost of prescriptions or if you are entitled to free prescriptions, look on the Department of
  Health website or call 0845 850 0030.