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Written question asked by Edward Morello (Liberal Democrat) on Monday, 13 July 2026, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Wednesday, 15 July 2026. It was answered by Preet Kaur Gill (Labour) on Monday, 20 July 2026 on behalf of the Department of Health and Social Care.

Occupational Therapy: Prescriptions

Question

To ask the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, what steps his Department is taking to support occupational therapists to undertake training required for independent prescribing qualifications.

Answer

We support the expansion of non-medical professional groups being able to use legal mechanisms to prescribe, supply, and administer medicines to patients where it is safe to do so. There is a robust process in place for making such changes to ensure they are safe and beneficial for patients.

We are considering requests for the extension of existing medicines responsibilities and recently concluded a consultation on proposals to extend the medicines responsibilities of four professions. Further information can be found at the following link:

www.gov.uk/government/consultations/extend-medicines-responsibilities-for-allied-health-professions

No specific assessment has been made of the impact of extending prescribing rights for occupational therapists on patient access to treatment, waiting times, or access to care in West Dorset.

Secondary information

Type
Written question
Reference
18461
Session
2026-27
Grouped for answer
Yes
Subjects
Prescriptions Occupational therapy
Link
View this Written question on www.parliament.uk