§ 32. Mr. ConnartyTo ask the Secretary of State for Scotland what guidelines are issued to health boards and health trusts on the choice of health care for elderly patients requiring long-term health care.
§ Mr. StewartMy right hon. Friend has issued no such guidelines. Choice of health care is determined by clinical assessment and need. It is for individual health boards to determine the care needs for their elderly population and to purchase accordingly. In so doing they are expected to have due regard for the Government's community care objectives and what is best for the individual.