HC Deb 15 January 1996 vol 269 c342W
Mr. Wareing

To ask the Secretary of State for Health what recent reports he has received alleging(a) unnecessary and (b) ineffective treatments provided by the national health service; what proposals he has to remedy such defects; and if he will make a statement. [8562]

Mr. Horam

A great deal of scientific evidence now exists about the effectiveness of health services. Improving the effectiveness of services is a priority for the national health service.

On 10 January, my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State announced the publication of "Promoting Clinical Effectiveness". The booklet has been developed to support the work of all those involved in identifying and reviewing the effectiveness of clinical services. It explains where to get information on effectiveness, how this information can be used to improve services locally and how the results of change can he monitored. The NHS executive will hold health authorities to account for increasing their investment in healthcare which is now known to be more effective. Copies of the publication are available in the Library.