01.11.13
Obesity policy ‘simply not working’ – NHS CCLG
Gaps in obesity services are limiting patients’ access to surgery, NHS Clinical Commissioners Leadership Group has warned.
In some parts of England, tier 3 community services to help obese patients control their weight are unavailable, meaning these patients cannot access surgical treatment.
The group called for NHS England to allow more flexibility for referral to bariatric surgery, which takes in national variation, while local authorities are urged to ensure they commission tier 3 services in their area.
Steve Kell, chair of Bassetlaw CCG and co-chair of the NHS Clinical Commissioners Leadership Group said: “We know from many GPs that the specialised commissioning policy for obesity is simply not working. As GPs we want to be able to refer patients for services they need, and which have proven benefit. These services should be available in all areas and we should not be placed in a position where we have to deny patients treatment because of this.
“Meanwhile it is essential that NHS England, as the specialist commissioner, shows some imagination and flexibility so that, where it is deemed clinically necessary, patients who need it can be referred now to a surgical pathway for bariatric surgery. It is important that patients have access to dieticians, exercise programmes and psychological input where needed, but pathways should include surgery as an option when indicated.
“Inflexible specialised commissioning policies that don't take into account national variation and a failure to be flexible has resulted inconsistent provision for patients.
“Local government, as the commissioners of these vital 'tier 3' services, have inherited a situation which is not of their making but while it will take time it is essential these vital specialist obesity service weight loss programmes are available in all areas of England.
“Our patients are being let down by the disconnects in provision, we need urgent action to sort this out so we can ensure the wellbeing of those who are our responsibility.”
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