§ 11. Mr. J. P. W. Mallalieuasked the Minister of Health what provision he makes under the National Health Act for the supply of special aids for deaf children who are unable to use the standard aid supplied through the National Health Service.
§ Miss PittIf a deaf child's needs are not met by any of the Medresco aids, the aid required may be provided through the school health service.
§ Mr. MallalieuIs the Minister aware that these provisions do not seem to cover all children? I have sent her the details of a case which has recently arisen. Will she therefore look at these provisions again and consider particularly the case of the child the details of which I have sent her?
§ Miss PittIt should be possible to meet all but a very few cases through the Medresco service. I have only just received the hon. Gentleman's letter, and I will look at the case he has in mind.
§ Mr. PagetCan the Minister say what the delay is in providing the Medresco Service? Is it rather serious in respect of children?
§ Miss PittI cannot answer that without notice, but, as I have had no complaints from hon. Members, I assume that the service is functioning satisfactorily.
§ Mr. W. GriffithsIs the Minister aware that a case arose recently in my constituency of a child below school age who could not be fitted with the National Health Service deaf aid—the Medresco deaf aid—and had to have a special deaf aid? The cost of this had to be met by the local authority out of its rate funds. Is not this contrary to the spirit of the National Health Service? Will the Minister look at this problem again? It affects only a very few people, but it is of great importance.
§ Miss PittIf the hon. Gentleman sends me details of a particular case, I will certainly look at it.