HC Deb 25 October 1984 vol 65 cc719-20W
Mr. Carter-Jones

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services what specialist facilities are available to people with multiple sclerosis for nutritional advice; where they are situated; what action he is taking to develop such facilities; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Newton

Details of dietetic advice facilities for multiple sclerosis sufferers are not held centrally, but such advice forms part of the general services available from health authorities' dietetics departments.

Mr. Carter-Jones

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services what specialist facilities are available to people with multiple sclerosis for hyperbaric oxygen therapy; where they are situated; what action he is taking to develop such facilities; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. John Patten

I refer the hon. Member to my reply to his question on 10 April at column203–4 about facilities for hyperbaric oxygen therapy. We will be reviewing our position on the provision of this therapy within the NHS in the light of the results of the controlled clinical trials being supported by voluntary bodies and of any other relevant developments.

Mr. Carter-Jones

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services (1) what specialist facilities are available to people with multiple sclerosis for telephone counselling by trained counsellors who have personal experience of the disease; where they are situated; what action he is taking to develop such facilities; and if he will make a statement;

(2) what specialist facilities are available to people with multiple sclerosis for group therapy; where they are situated; what action he is taking to develop such facilities; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Newton

Information on the local provision of specialist services to multiple sclerosis sufferers is not held centrally. The development of such services is a matter for local decision.

Mr. Carter-Jones

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services what specialist facilities are available to people with multiple sclerosis for neuro physiotherapy; where they are situated; what action he is taking to develop such facilities; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. John Patten

There are facilities for physiotherapy in every health district and the great majority of health districts employs at least one physiotherapist with special skills in the treatment of neurological problems. The development of these facilities is a matter for health authorities.