§ Mr. Clemitsonasked the Secretary of State for Social Services if it is the policy of his Department that regular medical examinations of schoolchildren should be phased out.
§ Mr. MoyleMy Department has prepared a draft document on preventive health services for children suggesting that health authorities should ensure that a basic programme of health surveillance is offered to all children. It suggests that all children should have a comprehensive medical assessment about the time of school entry which will provide the basis for selective medical examination at school for those who need it. After the 255W medical assessment at school entry, and during the school period, it is suggested that health surveillance for all children should be based on serial screening of vision, hearing and growth and on annual health care interviews with the school nurse. Vigilance by parents and teachers and regular meetings between the doctors, nurses, teachers and psychologists concerned should obviate the need for routine school medical examinations. It is hoped that a named doctor would be attached to the school and be available for the examination of selected children. Consultations are taking place with interested bodies on this draft document and it is hoped that it will be issued in its final form later this year.