§ 11.33 a.m.
§ LORD AMULREEMy Lords, I beg leave to ask the Question which stands in my name on the Order Paper.
§ [The Question was as follows:
§ To ask Her Majesty's Government whether they will advise that doctors responsible for the discharge of patients from hospital will state, in the medical notes on discharge form, whether the patient requires continuing nursing care, care provided by the welfare and other departments, or can lead an independent, normal life.]
§ LORD BESWICKMy Lords, hospital authorities have been advised of the action to be taken before patients are discharged. A standard form is recommended for use in notifying the general practitioner of his patient's forthcoming discharge, and this contains a section for the hospital doctor to indicate future treatment or other recommendations. Hospitals are also advised, where appropriate, to consult the local health authorities (and, if necessary, the Ministry of Labour resettlement officer) at an early stage, notifying them of impending discharge 48 hours in advance. Thus provision is made for the notification of the need for continued nursing care, or care provided by welfare or other departments, to those concerned with the aftercare of patients.
§ LORD AMULREEMy Lords, I should like to thank the noble Lord for his satisfactory reply.