§ Mrs. Ann WintertonTo ask the Secretary of State for Health if he will make a statement on the role of area health authorities in investigating medical issues regarding treatment at private hospitals following the recent Tees Area HA case; and if he will make a statement. [58832]
§ Mr. MilburnHealth authorities are responsible for registering private hospitals under the Registered Homes Act 1984 and inspecting the premises, staffing levels and qualifications twice a year. They can investigate complaints that hospitals have failed to comply with that Act. A complaint about private medical treatment is primarily a matter for the patient and the practitioner concerned, and it is open to individuals to seek redress through the courts or to bring the matter to the attention of the General Medical Council.