Written question asked by Iris Robinson (Democratic Unionist Party) on Monday, 6 September 2004, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Monday, 13 September 2004. It was answered by Baroness Smith of Basildon (Labour) on Monday, 13 September 2004 on behalf of the Northern Ireland Office.

Northern Ireland Office

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, what progress has ben made on improving the cosmetic appearance, with particular reference to colour synergy, of prosthetic limbs provided in Northern Ireland. - Inc figures.

Answer: Mrs. Iris Robinson: To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what progress has been made on improving the cosmetic appearance, with particular reference to colour synergy, of prosthetic limbs provided in Northern Ireland. [187783] Angela Smith: There is a range of silicone coverings (cosmeses) that may be provided to prosthetic users. These vary in cost from around £200 for a single colour covering to £5,000 for a high definition silicone covering. The latter are not provided routinely as part of prosthetic provision. Where the consultant and prosthetist consider there is a clinical need for a person to be supplied with a high definition cover, a case is made to the relevant Health and Social Services Board for funding. The Department of Health, Social Services and Public Safety, Green Park Healthcare Trust and Health and Social Services Boards are in discussion on the implications of widening provision of high definition coverings.

Secondary information