§ Mr. MackinlayTo ask the Secretary of State for Health (1) what funding is available for health authorities to supply artificial larynx equipment to those who have undergone a laryngectomy operation; and if she will make a statement;
(2) if the supply of artificial larynx equipment is available free of charge under the NHS to all laryngectomy patients.
§ Mr. SackvilleFunding for health authorities to supply artificial larynx equipment to those who have undergone a laryngectomy operation is provided through resources made available to the national health service.
It is for individual health authorities to determine the level of service provision required to meet the needs of people needing these operations in their area. Priorities are determined in the light of local circumstances.
563WNational health service consultants may prescribe artificial larynx equipment as part of NHS treatment and when they do so no charge is made. As for all other services, supply is dependent on resources, with decisions being made on the basis of clinical priorities and local needs.
§ Mr. MackinlayTo ask the Secretary of State for Health if sterile tracheostomy dressings are available on prescription to patients who have undergone laryngectomy surgery, once discharged from hospital; and if she will make a statement.
§ Mr. SackvilleSterile tracheostomy dressings are not available on general practitioner prescription, but they continue to be available to discharged patients through the hospital service.