§ 70. Mr. Michael McNair-WilsonTo ask the Secretary of State for Social Services what discussions he has had with the professional bodies representing anaesthetists and obstetricians about maintaining flying squad services to small obstetric units.
§ Mrs. CurrieResponsibility for determining the pattern of maternity care rests with individual health authorities. General guidelines on clinical operational and medical cover for maternity units are contained in the second and third reports of the maternity services advisory committee, which have been commended to health authorities for action. The guidance further states that the policies should be regularly updated and agreed with senior members of the professions involved.
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§ 71. Mr. FallonTo ask the Secretary of State for Social Services if he will set out the functions currently exercised by regional health authorities.
§ Mrs. CurrieUnder the terms of the NHS Act 1977 (as amended) regional health authorities act as agents of the Secretary of State in contributing to the provision of a comprehensive health service in England. Their specific functions are detailed in various statutory instruments and health circulars, but in general each RHA is responsible, within national guidelines, for the policies and strategic plans for health services in its region. The RHA's allocate resources to and monitor the performance of their district health authorities in achieving agreed objectives. They are the design and contracting authority for major capital developments and provide certain regional services such as the blood transfusion service, management services and in some cases, ambulance services. Regional health authorities also hold the contacts of consultants not working in teaching districts.