Written question asked by Andrew Dismore (Labour) on Friday, 8 October 1999, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Monday, 25 October 1999. It was answered by John Denham (Labour) on Monday, 25 October 1999 on behalf of the Department of Health.

Dept of Health

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Health, when pen needles for diabetics' insulin injectors will become available on the NHS; and if he will make a statement.

Answer: Mr. Dismore: To ask the Secretary of State for Health when pen needles for diabetics' insulin injectors will become available on the NHS; and if he will make a statement. [94425] Mr. Chope: To ask the Secretary of State for Health (1) what decision he has reached about his proposal to prevent pre-filled insulin injection pen systems being available on prescription for diabetics; [95105] (2) what estimate he has made of the amount that would be saved by the NHS if pre-filled insulin injection pen systems were no longer available to diabetics on prescription; and if he will publish a cost-benefit analysis of the proposal. [95106] Mr. Denham: We have consulted on proposals which would include allowing insulin pen needles to be prescribed by general practitioners on the National Health Service. We have received representations from most of the organisations consulted. We are considering them, and are seeking clarification on certain points before we make our final decisions.

Secondary information