The Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC) has launched a national survey to inform new guidance for local NHS formularies listing medical devices prescribed for home or community use.
The move follows long-standing concerns about regional variation in how NHS organisations manage these formularies, which can affect patient access to suitable devices. While NICE offers general advice on formulary development, there is currently no national framework for medical devices listed in Part IX of the Drug Tariff.
The survey is open to ICB pharmacy leads, clinicians, suppliers, nursing bodies, GP practices, trusts, charities, and patients and carers. Insights gathered will help shape guidance to standardise prescribing, improve clinical decision-making, and ensure patients receive appropriate devices wherever they live.
The DHSC says national guidance could bring greater clarity and stability for manufacturers and suppliers, reduce administrative burden for NHS staff, and help end the “postcode lottery” in access to medical devices.
The survey closes at midnight on Sunday 30 November 2025, and can be completed online.
