HC Deb 08 December 1958 vol 597 cc25-6
31. Mr. V. Yates

asked the Minister of Health how many patients in Birmingham are awaiting operations at all hospitals; in view of the fact that additional operating theatre facilities at Little Bromwich Hospital, Birmingham, have been approved in principle, why sketch plans have been under consideration for over nine months; when these plans will be approved; and how long it will be necessary to wait before this building is commenced.

Mr. R. Thompson

The waiting list for all surgical specialties is 11,331; it has been necessary to discuss with the Board several features of the plans involving detailed consideration by the Ministry's professional advisers and those of the Board. This scheme is proving specially difficult and matters have not yet reached the stage when I can say when these plans will be approved or when building work will commence.

Mr. Yates

Did I understand the Minister to say that there were 11,000 cases in which people are waiting for operations? At the hospital at Little Bromwich, referred to in the Question, in the last three months there have been over 200 operations in excess of the number five years ago. Is the Minister aware that this treatment of Birmingham is abominable?

Mr. Thompson

My answer related to the position in Birmingham as a whole, which is what the hon. Member asked. I would point out that the waiting list is for admission to beds and that not all patients admitted will necessarily have operations.

Dr. Summerskill

Will the Minister break down the number of 11,000 and tell the House what are the main conditions from which these people are suffering who have to wait in this way?

Mr. Thompson

Not without notice. The surgical specialties of this hospital are general surgery, ear, nose and throat. traumatic and orthopædic surgery, ophthalmology, dental surgery and gynæcology.

Dr. Summerskill

Is the Minister considering the suggestion which I have made this afternoon that he should see whether some of these cases could be transferred to other hospitals?

Mr. Thompson

I will certainly look at that, as I said the other day. A good deal of co-operation is already in existence.