§ Captain Kerbyasked the Minister of Health the cost to the National Health Service of medicine bottles and containers for which no charge is made, or deposit taken.
§ Mr. TurtonThe approximate cost for the twelve months ended November, 1955, was £1,181,000.
§ Captain Kerbyasked the Minister of Health why doctors are not allowed to prescribe such relatively inexpensive articles as arch-supports, which can be obtained only after attendance at hospital and on the prescription of a specialist; and, in view of the amount of time which is wasted by both specialist and patients through this regulation, if he will now amend it.
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§ Mr. TurtonThe appliances which may be prescribed by a general practitioner are those which are considered, after discussion with representatives of the medical profession, to be suitable for use in general practice. The treatment of conditions for which arch-supports may be necessary is considered to be more appropriate for hospitals.
§ Captain Kerbyasked the Minister of Health if he is aware that no provision is made in the National Health Service to cover the sudden incapacity of a doctor, through illness or accident, who nevertheless remains responsible for his list of State patients; that deputies cannot be found at a moment's notice; that this problem is a source of concern to doctors; and if he will take steps to provide a solution.
§ Mr. TurtonAfter discussion with representatives of the profession, I am proposing to amend the Regulations to make it clear that an executive council has power to make any arrangements necessary to continue general medical services to patients, including the provision of a deputy for a doctor taken ill.