§ Mr. CousinsTo ask the Secretary of State for Health how much has been raised in each year since 1980 in current and cash terms by each district health authority and in total by charging patients when they are involved in road traffic accidents(a) for all patients and (b) for inpatients and outpatients, separately.
§ Mr. SackvilleThe information requested could be compiled only at disproportionate cost.
§ Mr. BlunkettTo ask the Secretary of State for Health what are the present rules governing the recovery of the costs of treatment for victims of road traffic accidents from their personal or car insurance; and if she will make a statement.
§ Mr. SackvilleHospitals or general medical practitioners may collect an emergency treatment fee-currently at a flat rate of £20.10—for immediate medical examination or treatment required as a result of a road accident, and charges for subsequent in-patient or out-patient hospital treatment, up to specified ceilings. General medical practitioners may also claim a mileage allowance.
The emergency treatment fee is payable by the user of the vehicle irrespective of who caused the accident and must be covered by motor insurance policies. The charges for subsequent hospital treatment are levied directly on insurance companies but only in cases where companies make third party payments.