Written question asked by Debra Shipley (Labour) on Thursday, 18 October 2001, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Tuesday, 6 November 2001. It was answered by Maria Eagle (Labour) on Tuesday, 6 November 2001 on behalf of the Department for Work and Pensions.

Dept for Work and Pensions

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, what plans his Department has to improve the knowledge of doctors representing the Benefits Agency regarding the condition known as Fibromydgia Syndrome; and if he will ensure that information relating to the illness is sent to all appropriate agencies.

Answer: Ms Shipley: To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions what plans his Department has to improve the knowledge of doctors representing the Benefits Agency regarding the condition known as Fibromyalgia Syndrome; and if he will ensure that information relating to the illness is sent to all appropriate agencies. [9741] Maria Eagle: All medical service doctors who carry out assessments on behalf of the Benefits Agency have received comprehensive training on fibromyalgia within the past year. Fibromyalgia is covered in the disability handbook for disability living allowance and attendance allowance, which is available to decision-makers. Information on the condition will also be included in new training material for decision-makers which is currently being developed.

Secondary information

Type: Written question
Reference: 9741; 374 c192-3W
Session: 2001-02
Subjects: Disability Disability living allowance Attendance allowance Doctors Medicine Social security benefits Benefits Agency Medical Service Fibromyalgia
Link: View this Written question on www.publications.parliament.uk