Response from NHS Bristol regarding funding for Plagiocephaly Treatment

FOI 1011 367

Summary Issue – Plagiocephaly

Question

I am aware that Bristol PCT is providing treatment for children with

Plagiocephaly. I know that the helmets are provided by Frenchay

Hospital. As I am sure you are aware most PCT's in the UK do not

provide treatment on the NHS for plagiocephaly. I am wondering if you

could advise why Bristol have decided the treatment should be offered

to babies in your area?

Response

This is not a Bristol only service

It is a regional service commissioned by the South West

Specialised Commissioning Group for the South West

and provided by North Bristol NHS Trust at Frenchay

Hospital. The cost of the helmet is included in the total

procedure cost and there is no additional cost to the

commissioner.

The moulding cap treatment at Frenchay was set up

originally for post-operative treatment for babies having

cranial remodelling procedures for delayed diagnosis -

synostosis, but has been used for many years to treat

babies with severe plagiocephaly that has not

responded to standard postural measures. North Bristol

NHS Trust believe sufficient evidence exists to support

the technique in reducing the risk of long term cranial

deformity and avoiding a few of them having big

craniofacial remodelling operations

The information provided in this response is accurate as of 28 March 2011

Kat Tucker
Complaints & FOI Manager
NHS Bristol
0117 900 2494