Physios to prescribe drugs

Physiotherapists and podiatrists will be allowed to prescribe medicines, the Department of Health has announced.

Following suitable training, they will be able to give their patients medication such as pain-killers and anti-inflammatories. It will mean that podiatrists and physiotherapists will no longer have to refer their patients to a GP or other doctor.

A department spokeswoman said "advanced practitioner" physiotherapists and podiatrists in the UK would be the first in the world to be able to independently prescribe medicines where "clinically appropriate". Under the new legislation, physiotherapists will be able to prescribe medicines for issues such as chronic pain and respiratory diseases like asthma.

Podiatrists, who treat disorders of the foot, ankle and lower leg, will also be able to prescribe medication. The College of Podiatry said the move will benefit diabetic patients with infections of the feet and people with wounds, ingrown toenails or fungal infections.

Lord Howe, a Health minister, said: "These are highly trained clinicians who play a vital role in ensuring patients receive integrated care that helps them recover after treatment or manage a long-term condition."