Written question asked by Peter Robinson (Democratic Unionist Party) on Monday, 24 November 1997, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Wednesday, 3 December 1997. It was answered by Tony Worthington (Labour) on Wednesday, 3 December 1997 on behalf of the Northern Ireland Office.

Northern Ireland Office

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, if the Eastern Health and Social Services Board treats (a) breast reconstruction following a mastectomy and (b) the fitting of a prosthesis following amputation of a limb as a cosmetic procedure.

Answer: Mr. Peter Robinson: To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland if the Eastern Health and Social Services Board treats (a) breast reconstruction following a mastectomy and (b) the fitting of a prosthesis following amputation of a limb as a cosmetic procedure. [17904] Mr. Worthington: (a) Breast reconstruction following a mastectomy is generally regarded by the Eastern Board, as a cosmetic procedure. The Board and the surgeons who carry out this operation are however very aware of the deep distress which patients who wish to undergo reconstruction may suffer while waiting. (b) The Board takes a different view of the fitting of a prosthesis following amputation of a limb and does not regard that as a cosmetic procedure.

Secondary information

Type: Written question
Reference: 17904; 302 c246W
Session: 1997-98
Subjects: Breast cancer Hospitals Patients Northern Ireland Plastic surgery Eastern Health and Social Services Board Prosthetics