§ Mrs. DunwoodyTo ask the Secretary of State for Health if he will review the policy of general practitioner alignment of health visitors; and if he will publish the results of that review. [29567]
§ Mr. HoramHealth visitors work very closely with their general practitioner colleagues, other members of the primary health care team and the practice population.
From 1973, some district nurses and health visitors have become attached to GP practices and this has enhanced both the practice team and patient care.
We are currently completing a major listening exercise about primary care. A report will be published in June this year.
§ Mrs. DunwoodyTo ask the Secretary of State for Health if he will review the target requirements for health visitors to visit a new patient within five working days. [29549]
§ Mr. HoramThe patients charter standard is based on current good practice. It is a challenging but achievable standard, and there are no plans to review it.