Patients will be able to pay privately for medicines while still receiving NHS care, ministers confirmed today.

The widely-trailed new package of measures, which overturns the ban on patients paying for drugs while accessing NHS care, is designed to clearly separate private care from that provided by the NHS.

Alzheimer's Society maintains that drugs for the treatment of Alzheimer's should be available on the NHS for all people who might benefit. However, NICE guidance currently restricts access to the only drugs available for people with Alzheimer's disease, which could result in people privately funding treatment.

Today is a welcome first step towards clearing up the confusion and fear that exists around top-ups and we look forward to a more transparent and fair system for everyone.  However, recommendations to adopt a more flexible approach when evaluating treatments should not be limited to people with rare short-term conditions. Recommendations must be widened out to include treatments for people living with dementia.

Neil Hunt
Chief Executive
Alzheimer's Society

Information about Alzheimer's Society

Alzheimer's Society is the leading care and research charity for people with all forms dementia and their carers. It provides information and education, support for carers, and quality day and home care. It funds medical and scientific research and campaigns for improved health and social services and greater public understanding of dementia.

Alzheimer's Society provides a national help line on 0845 3000 336 and website alzheimers.org.uk. Please include this information in any publication that uses these comments.

For more information contact the press office on 0207 423 3595 or press@alzheimers.org.uk