§ 49. Lieut.-Commander KENWORTHYasked the Minister of Health if he is aware that eases have occurred where panel doctors have desired to give treatment by injections of asthmalysin for the cure of panel patients of asthma, but the doctors have been prevented from doing so by the regulations or have been surcharged for giving the treatment; and if he will inquire into the matter with a view to enabling this treatment to be given?
§ Mr. GREENWOODNo, Sir. No regulations have been made under the National Health Insurance Act which would preclude an insurance doctor from administering the drug in question when necessary for his treatment of an insured patient, nor am I aware of any case in which a surcharge has been made.
§ Lieut.-Commander KENWORTHYI am much obliged to the right hon. Gentleman, but would he mind telling me this: Could a doctor who prescribed this drug be called upon to justify its prescription and be surcharged if he were not able to make out his case?
§ Mr. GREENWOODThe regulations against extravagant prescribing might operate in certain cases, but I will discuss the matter with ray hon. and gallant Friend if he wishes it.