Written question asked by Vincent Cable (Liberal Democrat) on Wednesday, 17 July 2002, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Thursday, 19 September 2002. It was answered by Baroness Smith of Malvern (Labour) on Thursday, 19 September 2002 on behalf of the Department of Health.

Dept of Health

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Health, when he plans to introduce national standards for prosthetic, orthotic and wheelchair services; and if he will make a statement. - (Holding answer 23 July 2002).

Answer: Dr. Cable: To ask the Secretary of State for Health when he plans to introduce national standards for prosthetic, orthotic and wheelchair services and if he will make a statement. [71797] Jacqui Smith: [holding answer 23 July 2002]: We are currently working with multi professional groups in prosthetic and orthotic services and looking at ways of enhancing patient care through programmes such as the action on orthopaedics and the work of the prosthetic strategic supply group. We will consider in due course, whether any outcomes of this work can be issued as appropriate guidance to the National Health Service. We are also working with the Modernisation Agency to improve wheelchair services and to spread best practice across the country. Several national groups, with an interest, have been working on standards for the wheelchair service. As the collaborative work progresses, we will review whether one such standard could be given Departmental endorsement.

Secondary information