HC Deb 06 February 1939 vol 343 cc636-7
72. Mr. Thorne

asked the Minister of Health whether panel doctors are expected, and permitted under the regulations, to supply any drug they wish to panel patients?

The Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Health (Mr. Bernays)

Insurance practitioners are required by their terms of service to order any drugs which are necessary for the adequate treatment of their patients.

Mr. Alexander

How does the hon. Member explain that some practitioners have been fined up to £100 for supplying drugs unnecessarily?

Mr. Bernays

If a prima facie case of extravagance is made out, then my right hon. Friend goes into the question with the local panel committee.

Mr. Thorne

How are you going to get this information into the hands of the various local committees?

Mr. Bernays

As far as I am aware, it is already there.

Mr. Logan

Will the hon. Member make inquiries again and see whether this is the correct answer?

Mr. Jenkins

Is it not the case that a medical practitioner has to get the consent of the Department before he orders an expensive drug?

Mr. Bernays

No, Sir.