HC Deb 14 July 1938 vol 338 cc1541-2W
Mr. White

asked the Minister of Health (1) under what rules or orders regional medical officers carry out their duties under the National Health Insurance Acts, and to whom they are responsible; (2) under what authority medical referees are appointed to examine insured claimants for benefits under approved societies rules?

Mr. Elliot

Regional medical officers are responsible ultimately to me. As regards the authority for their appointment and their powers and duties I would refer the hon. Member to Section 6 of the Ministry of Health Act, 1919, and the National Health Insurance (Medical Benefit) Regulations, 1937. The principal duty assigned to these officers is the special examination at the request of approved societies, in accordance with their rules made under Section 79 of the National Health Insurance Act, 1936, of insured persons claiming sickness or disablement benefit.