§ Mr. HoonTo ask the Secretary of State for Health what was the total number of prescriptions issued to asthmatics in(a) 1992–93 and (b) 1993–94; and how many were (i) free of charge, (ii) covered by a pre-payment certificate, (iii) paid for a straightforward commercial transaction and (iv) paid for in some other way.
§ Dr. MawhinneyThe available information is shown in the table.
310W
Number of prescription items for drugs used in the treatment of asthma (Bronchodilators, Corticosteroids, and Cromoglycate and related
therapy1) dispensed by community pharmacists and appliance
contractors in England in 1992 and 1993
Year Free of Charge Charge at point of dispensing Pre-payment certificate Total 1992 21,088,000 3,879,000 2,396,000 27,363,000 1993 22,912,000 3,817,000 2,496,000 29,225,000 Note:
1 Drugs used in the treatment of asthma are contained in the British National Formulary sections 3.1 (Bronchodilators), 3.2 (Corticosteroids), and 3.3 (Cromoglycate and related therapy). The therapeutic classifications are based on the September 1992 issue. The drugs for Bronchodilators may be used for other conditions. Patients with asthma may also be prescribed drugs which are not specifically for the treatment of asthma.