§ Mr. Martyn JonesTo ask the Secretary of State for Health (1) what family planning and other reproductive health facilities are currently available free within the NHS; and if he will list those which are available on prescription; [16325]
(2) which types of contraception are available (a)free and anonymously at family planning centres, (b)free through a qualified doctor and (c)with a prescription; and what plans he has to change these arrangements. [16494]
§ Ms JowellThe National Health Service provides a wide range of family planning services through general practitioner services and family planning clinics. This includes advice and counselling on family planning, as well as the provision of contraceptives. All methods of contraception available under the National Health Service are obtainable free of charge.
Doctors are entitled to provide any of the contraceptive methods available under the National Health Service providing they have the necessary expertise. Certain drugs and appliances are available by prescription only. These are listed in the British National Formulary at chapter 7.3. Copies have been placed in the Library.
Confidentiality is an important feature of family planning service provision. Questions of anonymity are a matter for the professionals and individuals concerned taking account of particular circumstances as well as the type of contraception involved.
A review of the existing arrangements for prescribing is currently being undertaken. The issue of charging for prescriptions is also being examined within a comprehensive review of all National Health Service spending. However, the Government remain committed to a policy of access to treatment based on need and not on ability to pay.