§ Dr. Summerskillasked the Secretary of State for Social Services what steps he is taking to increase the number of rheumatology specialists serving the Leeds Regional Hospital Board area above the present number of 2.3.
§ Mr. AlisonNone. It is for the Leeds Regional Hospital Board to assess the62W regional needs and the priority of any demand for rheumatological services on its resources; and in assessing the number of consultants required in this specialty it would take account of the present referral pattern for patients suffering from rheumatism, some of whom are treated by consultants in other specialties. One of the three Chairs in Rheumatology in England is at Leeds, and this should provide a stimulus for the service and base for training.