§ 14. Mr. Lewis Stevensasked the Secretary of State for Social Services if he will make a statement on the progress of computerisation within the National Health Service.
§ Mr. John PattenComputers are already in extensive use in the National Health Service. We are currently developing with health authorities a strategic approach to 133 the use of information and available technology aimed at further improving the management and delivery of health services.
§ Mr. StevensWill my hon Friend take into account the need for substantial monitoring of the development and use of computers so that we can see the tangible benefits as soon as possible?
§ Mr. PattenCapital investment in computerisation in the NHS is running at approximately £100 million. There is evidence of that investment in my hon. Friend's area of north Warwickshire, where the district health authority is funding four practices, which cover about 40 per cent. of all patients treated by family practitioners in that area.