HC Deb 22 March 1965 vol 709 cc10-1W
Sir J. Eden

asked the Minister of Health if he will make a statement about the future control of artificial limb and appliance centres; what other centres are to be opened; and what improvements he proposes to make on the present system of call-up of patients for limb fitting.

Mr. K. Robinson

My policy is to build new centres in the grounds of hospitals to facilitate greater integration with the orthopaedic services, and the aim is to complete this task over the next ten years.

The system of calling patients for limb fitting was improved last year and I do not think any further changes are necessary at present.

Sir J. Eden

asked the Minister of Health if he will make a statement about the steps he is taking further to improve the artificial limb and appliance service so as to ensure that amputees are provided with the best possible limb, accurately and scientifically fitted, with the subsequent guarantee of efficient servicing.

Mr. K. Robinson

My Department is engaged on research work on artificial limbs, both directly and in collaboration with manufacturers, and keeps in close touch with developments in this field both in this country and abroad. A new building is being erected at Roehampton to provide more and better accommodation for this work. A Standing Advisory Committee considers and advises on all aspects of the artificial limb service and, among many other matters, is at present looking into the training of limb fitters (who are employees of the contractors). Improvements in servicing arrangements are constantly being sought. Closer links are being forged between the limb service and orthopaedic services in hospitals.

Sir J. Eden

asked the Minister of Health whether the Sub-Committee of the Standing Advisory Committee on Artificial Limbs, set up to consider the selection, training and qualifications of limb fitters, has concluded its investigations; what are its recommendations; and what plans he has for ensuring that limb-fitters are capable of making full use of the latest technical and electronic aids.

Mr. K. Robinson

The Sub-Committee has only recently begun its task. It will in due course advise the Standing Advisory Committee which will then report to me and my right hon. Friend, the Secretary of State for Scotland; we will consider in the light of that report what action is required.