Written question asked by Julie Morgan (Labour) on Friday, 12 December 2003, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Wednesday, 17 December 2003. It was answered by Stephen Ladyman (Labour) on Wednesday, 17 December 2003 on behalf of the Department of Health.

Dept of Health

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Health, what steps are taken to ensure that the use of medication for women in prison complies with the best practice guidance of the NHS.

Answer: Julie Morgan: To ask the Secretary of State for Health what steps are taken to ensure that the use of medication for women in prison complies with the best practice guidance of the NHS. [144520] Dr. Ladyman: All prison establishments are expected, in conjunction with their local primary care trust, to be covered by a drugs and therapeutic committee or its equivalent. Drawing on specialist advice, this committee should be responsible for the development of an evidence-based local formulary, disease management guidelines and medicine-related policies and procedures. All establishments are expected to take account of relevant guidelines issued by the National Institute for Clinical Excellence.

Secondary information