Reports Hub

Consultation by: Department of Health and Social Care

The Department of Health and Social Care consulted on proposals to allow pharmacists to substitute medicines when the prescribed item is unavailable. Healthwatch Birmingham & Solihull supported increased flexibility where it helps prevent delays to treatment. We emphasised the need for clear, accessible information for patients when substitutions are made, consistent monitoring of how decisions are applied, and notifying prescribers so they can respond to any follow up concerns. We recommended that dedicated training should be implemented ahead of the suggested changes. We also highlighted risks for patients who may struggle to understand changes without clear explanations and noted that strict word limits in the consultation restricted respondents’ ability to fully outline their views.

Consultation by: Department of Health and Social Care

The Department of Health and Social Care consulted on proposals to widen the range of medicines that Optometrists and Contact Lens Opticians can supply directly to patients. Healthwatch Birmingham & Solihull responded in support of measures that could improve access to timely care in community settings. We highlighted the need for clear referral pathways for patients who cannot be treated in the community, accessible information about the changes, and straightforward feedback and complaints routes. We also raised concerns about the potential for increased inequalities and the cost of medicines acting as a barrier for people on low incomes.

In recent months, we’ve been listening to your experiences across Birmingham and Solihull, and turning what you tell us into real improvements in health and care.

With the independence of patient voice under threat, your feedback matters more than ever.

Consultation by: NHS England

Healthwatch Birmingham & Solihull responded to NHS England’s consultation on the revised Children and Young People’s Gender Service Specification. We welcomed the holistic approach to assessing need, the National Provider Network’s role in consistency, and a separate pathway for prepubertal children. However, we raised concerns about flexibility, support for those using unregulated medication, and paediatric endocrinology capacity. We questioned safeguards for referrals outside specialist pathways and stressed that patient experience data must inform service quality metrics.