Mr. William O'BrienTo ask the Secretary of State for Health what is her best estimate for the time taken to assess the needs of a patient under the new community care programme; and if she will make a statement.
§ Mr. YeoAssessment procedures need to be matched to individual circumstances and will, therefore, vary considerably in length and complexity. We have made it clear to local authorities that assessment processes should be as simple, quick and efficient as possible so that people get the care they need when they need it.