§ Mr. HancockTo ask the Secretary of State for Health how many(a) consultant neurologists, (b) physiotherapists and (c) speech and language therapists he estimates are needed to implement the National Service Framework for Long Term Conditions from 2005; how many of each group are in post; what action he is taking to make up any shortfall; and if he will make a statement. [140114]
§ Dr. LadymanThe national service framework (NSF) for long term conditions will focus on improving the standard of neurology services across England. It will also address some of the generic issues that are important to people with non-neurological disabilities, such as access to rehabilitation services; provision of good quality information; support for carers; and, access to community equipment, assistive technology and wheelchairs.
We recognise the important role that doctors, allied health professionals and other professionals play in providing appropriate services and support for people with long term conditions, their families and carers. We are increasing the numbers of these professionals as part of the NHS Plan commitment to increase the national health service work force.
As at 30 June 2003, there were 407 consultants in neurology, representing an increase of 33 per cent. since September 1999. We are working towards increasing their numbers further and in 2003–04 have provided central funding to support implementation of a further 10 specialist registrar posts in neurology. Trusts will also have the opportunity to create up to an additional 20 locally funded specialist registrar training opportunities.
We are also increasing the numbers of speech and language therapists and physiotherapists entering training each year. There are now 140 more (an increase 1390W of 31 per cent.) training places for speech and language therapy and 811 more (an increase of 60 per cent.) for physiotherapy.
Additionally, as part of the process of developing the NSF work is in hand to consider relevant work force issues such as the need for increased numbers of staff but also for new ways of working, including skill mix, role extensions and multi-disciplinary working, based around patient needs. We expect that the group looking at these workforce issues will make recommendations on the future supply of professionals and development of new ways of working to inform national workforce planning processes.