§ Mr. Nicholas BennettTo ask the Secretary of State for Social Services what information he has as to the results of the experimental reception system in the accident and emergency department Oldchurch hospital, Romford; and if he will make a statement on its possible adoption throughout the National Health Service.
§ Mrs. CurrieI understand that the nurse practitioner scheme, introduced in the accident and emergency116W department at Oldchurch hospital in 1986, has enabled patient care to be improved by reducing waiting times and inappropriate attendances.
We welcome the scheme and the recognition given to it by the award of the RIPA-Hay first prize for managerial innovation in the public sector in 1987 to Barking, Havering and Brentwood health authority. I understand that the health authority will shortly be publishing information about the scheme to other health authorities.