Written question asked by Lord Bruce of Bennachie (Liberal Democrat) on Monday, 8 February 1999, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Wednesday, 10 February 1999. It was answered by Sam Galbraith (Labour) on Wednesday, 10 February 1999 on behalf of the Scottish Office.

Scottish Office

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland, what estimate he has made of the annual cost of abolishing charges for (a) eye and (b) dental check-ups in Scotland; and if he will make a statement. - Inc figures.

Answer: Mr. Malcolm Bruce: To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland what estimate he has made of the annual cost of abolishing charges for (a) eye and (b) dental check-ups in Scotland; and if he will make a statement. [70352] Mr. Galbraith: NHS sight test are available free of charge to eligible patients. It is estimated that the re-introduction of universally free NHS sight tests in Scotland would cost a minimum of £14 million annually. Free NHS sight tests for people aged 60 and over will be introduced from April At present, patients who are not eligible for free NHS dental services or for help with the costs of these pay 80 per cent. of the examination or treatment fee directly to the dentist. It is estimated that the re-introduction of universally free NHS dental examinations in Scotland would cost a minimum of £4.5 million From 1 July, this will be a matter for the Scottish Parliament.

Secondary information

Type: Written question
Reference: 70352; 325 c279W
Session: 1998-99
Subjects: Dental services Fees and charges Eyesight NHS Ophthalmic services Scotland Screening Testing
Contains statistics: Yes