Can anti-malarials, for the prophylaxis of malaria, be prescribed on the NHS in Lambeth, Southwark and Lewisham?

In short, the answer is yes. Historically, Lambeth Southwark and Lewisham Health Authority have allowed GPs to prescribe antimalarials on an FP10 prescription form for the PROPHYLAXIS of malaria because of the locally high levels of incidence. Lambeth, Southwark and Lewisham PCTs have some of the highest rates of malaria nationally. This policy has been adopted by the 3 newer organisations: Lambeth, Southwark and Lewisham PCTs. A prescription written by a GP in either Lambeth, Southwark or Lewisham PCTs will be dispensed by the community pharmacist and will be reimbursed by the PPA. <br><br>

The policy of allowing GPs to prescribe goes against the GPs terms of service. Legislation from 1995 (FHSL (95) 7) gave GPs the power to charge patients for prescribing or providing antimalarial prophylaxis for travel abroad through an amendment to paragraph 40 of the GP terms of service. However, GPs in Lambeth, Southwark and Lewisham are not prohibited from prescribing malaria prophylaxis on an FP10 prescription form. <br><br>

Contact your prescribing adviser for further information.