§ Mr. Onslowasked the Secretary of State for Social Services what is the basis of the regional norm for staffing of hospitals in England and Wales; when these norms were first set; and how often they are reviewed.
§ Dr. OwenNot all regional health authorities have laid down staffing "norms", but I understand that the basis of the South West Thames Regional Health Authority Regional "norm" for medical staffing is the Department of Health and Social Security's annual publication "Hospital Medical Staff England and Wales—Regional Whole-Time Equivalent Tables". The regional health authority rates the average, in England, for each of the specialties and uses these figures as a target for the region. The "norms" are reviewed annually.
The region's recommended norms for nursing staff are based on the work load throughout the region, and take no account of financial resources but are purely an assessment of nursing needs. The figures are reviewed at regular intervals and the last review took place earlier this year.
I am collecting information in respect of other regions in England and will write to the hon. Member as soon as possible. Health services in Wales are the responsibility of my right hon. and learned Friend the Secretary of State for Wales.
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