HC Deb 29 January 1973 vol 849 cc324-5W
Mr. Farr

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services what he estimates will be an adequate number of beds for ear, nose and throat patients in the Leicester district in June 1973 and June 1974; and how many ear, nose and throat beds will actually be available on those two dates.

Mr. Alison

The Sheffield Regional Hospital Board estimates that an adequate number of beds in 1973 and 1974 would be 35 for children and 50 for adults. The number of beds expected to be available are:

June 1973 June 1974
Children 12 25
Adults 35 35

Mr. Farr

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services what is the waiting time for ear, nose and throat operations in the Leicester district.

Mr. Alison

On 31st December 1972 patients awaiting ear, nose and throat operations in hospitals serving the County of Leicester had been on the waiting list for the periods shown:

Number of Patients for
Waiting time Tonsils and Adenoids Other Total
Under 3 months 235 163 398
3 to 6 months 238 85 323
6 to 12 months 533 99 632
1 to 2 year, 873 169 1,042
Over 2 years 773 392 1,165

Mr. Farr

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services what steps he is taking to provide replacement beds for ear, nose and throat patients in the Leicester district now that the Clarendon Park Clinic, Leicester, has closed.

Mr. Alison

Building adaptations to provide accommodation for 17 additional beds for children at the Leicester Royal Infirmary commenced on 15th January and are scheduled for completion in December 1973. The regional hospital board has also made arrangements for the use of four beds in the Leicester Clinic with effect from 12th February. Arrangements have also been made to double the number of children treated per week in the Leicester Royal Infirmary.