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Dept of Health

Answer

Mr. Jon Owen Jones: To ask the Secretary of State for Health (1) how many independent sector treatment centres have contacts with the NHS; and what assessment he has made of their impact on (a) patient care and (b) quality of life; [202575] (2) whether there has been a reduction in NHS waiting lists in the areas in which independent sector treatment centres are operating; [202576] (3) whether there has been a reduction in the number of NHS patients opting for private treatment in areas of the country where independent sector treatment centres are operating. [202577] Mr. Hutton: Seven contracts for independent sector treatment centres (ISTCs) have been signed. More are expected to be signed shortly and all will be subject to review of their outcomes. The additional 250,000 patients ISTCs will be treating each year by the end of 2005 will help improve the quality of life for patients who previously may have had to wait longer for treatment. ISTCs have contributed to the 12 per cent., waiting list reductions over the past 12 months highlighted in the Chief Executive's report to the national health service (December 2004). Mobile magnetic resonance imaging units are also helping to speed up diagnosis and treatment for many patients. Data on the number of patients opting to pay for private treatment is not available.

Secondary information

Type

Written question

Reference

428 c971-2W; 202575;202576;202577

Session

2004-05

Subjects

Hospitals NHS Medical treatments Patients Waiting lists Treatment centres

Link

View this Written question on www.publications.parliament.uk