HC Deb 23 July 1996 vol 282 c222W
Ms Harman

To ask the Secretary of State for Health what progress he has made on the proposals of the British Diabetic Association and Department of Health task force to improve diabetic care. [39059]

Mr. Horam

The National Health Service Executive has disseminated the report of the Department of Health and British Diabetic Association St. Vincent joint task force for diabetes to health authorities and asked them to take account of the recommendations in planning local diabetes services. It is for local health authorities to decide on the priority they give to developing such services.

In addition, a diabetes subgroup of the clinical outcomes group has been set up to develop service guidance for purchasers, based on the recommendations of the task force. The subgroup's membership includes representatives of health authorities and trusts, nurses, general practitioners, patients, and the British Diabetic Association. The subgroup expects to complete its work by the end of 1996.