HC Deb 12 June 1961 vol 642 c9
9. Mr. Thorpe

asked the Minister of Health what plans he has for the increased provision of day treatment in hospitals, similar to the experiment being operated by the Chichester Hospital Management Committee at St. Richard's Hospital, Chichester.

Miss Pitt

Advice on the day treatment of the elderly sick was given to hospital authorities in October, 1957: I am sending the hon. Member a copy.

Mr. Thorpe

Would the hon. Lady agree that this is a very valuable form of treatment in that it allows elderly people to go home at night and for their relatives to look after them, which is a great saving in nursing staff? Is she satisfied that hospitals are experimenting sufficiently with this form of treatment?

Miss Pitt

I agree with the first point made by the hon. Member, that it is valuable for the individual and cuts short the in-patient time in hospitals. The question of provision of this type is for the hospitals themselves. It is developing.