HC Deb 04 July 1966 vol 731 cc15-6
33. Mr. Judd

asked the Minister of Health what facilities exist within the Portsmouth area for the treatment of chronic kidney disease; and how many people in the area are known to be in need of such treatment.

Mr. K. Robinson

In addition to the ordinary medical services already available in the area, a renal unit for the investigation and treatment of kidney diseases was opened at Priorsdean Hospital, Portsmouth, in October, 1965, serving the Wessex Hospital Region as a whole. The Wessex Board also intends to build a unit at Priorsdean Hospital specifically for the treatment of chronic renal failure by intermittent dialysis. There is no reliable means of assessing how many people in the area are suffering from chronic kidney disease, nor what proportion of them would benefit from intermittent dialysis.

Mr. Judd

While welcoming this news about future policy for the Portsmouth area, may I ask my right hon. Friend whether he is aware that there is concern in the area about the speed with which the new unit can be introduced? There seems to be a difference of opinion between the local board and the Ministry.

Mr. Robinson

If my hon. Friend likes to write to me or put down a Question, I will be glad to look into the possibility of such difficulties and see whether they might be removed.