§ Rev. Martin SmythTo ask the Secretary of State for Health what steps he has taken in reported cases of(a) doctors, (b) opticians and (c) pharmacists who have defrauded the National Health Service; and if such incidents are reported to their professional bodies. [55531]
§ Mr. MilburnHealth authorities are responsible for investigating cases of fraud by practitioners. They may refer such cases to the relevant regulatory or professional body. Where criminal prosecution is being considered, the case will normally be referred for investigation by the police before being referred to a professional body.
1180WThe Prescription Pricing Authority Fraud Investigation Unit provides expert advice and an investigative service to health authorities in England for prescription fraud.
A director of counter fraud services within the National Health Service Executive was appointed on 1 September. A document outlining a comprehensive strategy for ensuring that the NHS in England has the professional resources it needs to prevent, deter and investigate all types of fraud will be published later this year.