§ 44. Mr. R. W. Elliottasked the Minister of Health if he is aware of the need for a clinic for the treatment of migraine sufferers in the north-east of England; and what steps he will take to set one up.
§ Mr. BraineNo, Sir. Doctors have the means to treat migraine in whatever way they judge best.
§ Mr. ElliottIs my hon. Friend aware that many people who suffer from this appalling complaint are of the fixed opinion that there is concentration on treatment rather than on cure? Will he recommend to his right hon. Friend that he extends his powers not only to agree to the setting up of clinics attached to regional hospitals but to insist that these clinics be established?
§ Mr. BraineThere is no reason why doctors should not hold special clinics for patients with migraine if they think that this is the best way of organising treatment. Specialist advice is available from consultant physicians and neurologists at hospitals, including hospitals in Newcastle.
§ Dame Irene WardWill my hon. Friend bear in mind that patients in the north of England suffering from migraine have had to come down to the Putney Migraine Clinic at their own expense in order to get proper treatment and cure? When will my right hon. Friend—I do not blame my hon. Friend the Parliamentary Secretary—really see sense in 31 this matter? He talks a lot of nonsense about the whole thing.
§ Mr. BraineI hate to disagree with my hon. Friend, but I do not think she listened to what I said previously. Specialist advice is available from consultant physicians or neurologists at hospitals, including those in her own area of Newcastle.