§ Dr. McDonaldasked the Secretary of State for Social Services if his Department has any guidelines for the optimum size of an acute hospital, including the number of beds, mix of specialties and activities, and for a minimum size for a viable acute hospital; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. WhitneyWe have not issued formal guidance of this nature on the size or functions of acute hospitals. We expect health authorities to plan for the efficient and cost effective provision of services taking full account of local needs and priorities, available resources including existing provision, health building notes and cost allowances, and the views of the medical profession and the public.