Coeliac Disease: Health Services
The question
To ask the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, whether she plans to take steps to ensure consistent (a) diagnosis, (b) clinical management and (c) dietary support for coeliac patients.
Answered by Mrs Sharon Hodgson
People with coeliac disease should have access to timely diagnosis, appropriate clinical management, and clear dietary advice to support long‑term health. Diagnosis and management of coeliac disease in England are informed by national clinical guidance, including recommendations from the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE), which set out best practice for testing, referral, and follow‑up care. Following NICE guidelines helps integrated care boards (ICBs) to deliver care that is proven to work, use National Health Service resources wisely, and provide fair and consistent services for patients.
ICBs are responsible for commissioning services that meet the needs of their local populations, including gastroenterology and dietetic services, and are best placed to consider how care pathways are delivered locally. The NHS continues to focus on improving earlier diagnosis and more coordinated care for long‑term conditions through integrated, personalised approaches, supported by wider improvement programmes to reduce unwarranted variation in care.
The Department will continue to work with NHS England to support consistent, high‑quality care for people living with coeliac disease, within existing NHS frameworks and evidence‑based guidance.
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