NHS: Hospital Medication

Lord Walton of Detchant Excerpts

Wednesday 9th April 2014 Lords Chamber

[Baroness Jolly]

The noble Baroness speaks from a position of much expertise as the chair of the APPG on Parkinson’s. It is really important that people with Parkinson’s disease get the medicines that they need when they need them, whether they are being cared for in their home, in a care home or in hospital. The NHS is working to improve services for people with Parkinson’s disease. This includes ensuring that staff are properly trained to support people with Parkinson’s and other neurological conditions.

[Lord Walton of Detchant (CB)]

My Lords, does the Minister agree that the management of drug therapy for patients with parkinsonism may require exceptional skills? It is not a matter of taking tablets two or three times a day. The dosage and its timing must be tailored specifically according to the needs of the individual patient. If the timing of a particular dose is unduly delayed, this may result in what is called the on/off phenomenon, with a sharp return of disabling symptoms. It is therefore crucial that this matter be taken on board. Does the Minister believe that this issue, highlighted by the Question tabled by the noble Baroness, Lady Gale, is being properly handled in the NHS at present?

[Baroness Jolly]

I can tell the noble Lord that NICE guidance suggests that people with Parkinson’s disease should have their medicines given at the appropriate time, not on the ward round with the trolley of regular medication. Where it is absolutely appropriate and possible, this may mean allowing self-medication.