§ Mr. WigleyTo ask the Secretary of State for Wales what guidelines he has issued to general practitioners in Wales with regard to the level of emergency cover needed out of hours and at weekends and bank holidays; what surveys he has undertaken to ascertain the effectiveness of such cover; and if he will make a statement. [39643]
§ Mr. Win GriffithsIt is for individual Health Authorities to arrange for the delivery of general medical services in consultation with general practitioners within their area.
In 1995, a number of changes were introduced which directly affected the provision of out-of-hours emergency care by GPs. The changes included the restructuring of the payment system to GPs, changes to the GPs' terms of service and the provision of an Out of Hours Development Fund.
The intention of this Fund is to secure improvements in out-of-hours services, reduce pressure on individual GPs, and/or make more cost effective use of their time.
The Welsh Office has commissioned an evaluation of the out-of-hours arrangements in Wales. The report is expected shortly.