HC Deb 21 April 1953 vol 514 cc794-5
26. Mr. Ross

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland what steps he is taking to improve out-patient organisation in Scottish hospitals.

Commander Galbraith

A report on this subject by the Scottish Health Services Council was commended to hospital boards some time ago, and I am sending the hon. Member a copy. I am assured that the boards keep the working of out-patient departments under constant review, and many improvements have been made in the last few years. If, however, the hon. Gentleman has any particular difficulty in mind, perhaps he would be good enough to let me know?

Mr. Ross

The Minister will be aware that the Department of Health states that the way out of this is by putting into operation an appointments scheme; is he also aware that, even where appointments schemes exist in certain Scottish hospitals, it is not unusual for out-patients to have to wait two, three and even four hours, many of them having travelled long distances, before the specialist even sees them? Will he ask specialists visiting these hospitals to consult more the needs of the patient rather than their own convenience?

Commander Galbraith

My right hon. Friend is aware that these appointments systems sometimes fail to achieve their object in practice when the organisation is faulty: I am certain that everything will be done to endeavour to rectify errors where they exist.

Mr. Ross

But surely the Minister must realise that this complaint has been one of considerably long standing and that we want something more definite than that?

Sir H. Williams

Does my right hon. and gallant Friend agree that the supplementary question indicates the urgent desirability of an inquiry into the whole State medical service?