§ Mr. CohenTo ask the Secretary of State for Health how many duplicate NHS numbers have been issued by his Department; what plans he has to end this duplication; and if he will make a statement. [29697]
§ Mr. HoramDuplicate national health service numbers have so far been issued to some 7,500 newly registered babies.
We are able to identify duplicate numbers quickly. Until the problem is resolved, the NHS central register is giving all of the babies concerned new NHS numbers to replace the duplicate numbers issued originally.
More than one option has been identified to prevent the issuing of duplicate numbers and these options are being evaluated. The study is due to make its recommendations at the end of May 1996. The chosen option will be implemented as quickly as possible.