36. Mr. Baker Whiteasked the Minister of National Insurance what obligation rests upon doctors, nurses and other members of hospital staffs to notify patients that claims for sickness benefit must be lodged within three days; and whether she is satisfied that the present arrangements are working efficiently
§ Dr. SummerskillMy right hon. Friends have asked hospitals in the National Health Service to make suitable arrangements to this end, and I have no reason to think that these arrangements are not working satisfactorily. I am, however, also asking the National Insurance Advisory Committee to consider certain relaxations in the Regulations governing claims by persons in hospital.
Mr. Baker WhiteIs the Minister aware that these cases do arise, and that I have sent to her comparatively recently three instances in which people have gone into hospital for operations or because of serious illness, have not been notified of the three days' rule and have lost benefits as a result?
§ Dr. SummerskillI told the House the other day, when a Motion by the hon. Member for Croydon, East (Sir H. Williams) was discussed, that I was considering it and that I hoped to make certain relaxations.
37. Mr. Baker Whiteasked the Minister of National Insurance if she is aware that many members of the public do not realise that a claim for sickness benefit must be lodged within three days; and whether, in view of the considerable increase in the number of claims for benefits refused arising from this ignorance of the Regulations, she will take steps by means of a wireless announcement, posters and Press advertisements to remind the public of this important Regulation.
§ Dr. SummerskillI have no reason to believe that their is general ignorance of the rules, which have received widespread publicity, including a recent short film. Every opportunity is taken and will continue to be taken to bring the matter to public notice.