§ Mr. Ovendenasked the Secretary of State for Social Services if she is aware of the shortage of chiropodists in the Gravesham and Dartford area arising from the difficulty of attracting staff; and if she will initiate discussions with the regional health authority on the interim measures needed to restore regular treatment for the elderly.
§ Dr. OwenI recognise that in some areas chiropody services are less than adequate at present but the long-term 225W objective is to expand and improve services to acceptable standards in all areas as manpower and other resources permit.
In the particular case of Gravesham and Dartford the provision of health services is the responsibility in the first instance of the Kent Area Health Authority and I understand that it is fully aware of the effect of staff shortages on chiropody services. It is making strenuous efforts to recruit chiropodists to fill its existing vacancies.
I am assured that the available services are being directed to priority groups, mainly the elderly.