The Department of Health (DH) is considering giving podiatrists and those in physiotherapy jobs independent prescribing powers.

The DH is asking professionals within the two sectors to think about the conditions which they could prescribe for and the type of medicines they would be able to administer, with ministers then meeting and discussing the findings and possible options.

The proposal could mean that some of the 43,000 physiotherapists and 12,000 podiatrists will join the 55,000 nurses and 1,000 pharmacists already qualified to prescribe.

Both groups of professionals are regulated by the Health Professions Council and the DH has proposed that those wanting to be considered must have a minimum of three year's experience in their field and should have the support of their employer.

Allowing both professionals to prescribe for patients could enhance the podiatrists' diabetes care and minimise unnecessary consultations for physiotherapists.

As told by Pulse Today the DH have said that "independent prescribing could provide greater choice for patients, GPs and commissioners. By reducing unnecessary appointments with different professionals, the costs of care may reduce."

Nick Goodwin, the King's Fund senior told the Health Service Journal that the move formed part of future initiative to increase the role non-medics are given in prescribing.

"The direction of travel is the right one but with caveats around ensuring quality. The big thing is the continuity of medication. There is an information management challenge and another in the regulatory investment it would require. But if you do it right there's no reason this can't be done easily and effectively," he said.

The consultation will close in November.