§ Mr. Barry JonesTo ask the Secretary of State for Wales how many primary care groups are operative in Wales; and if he will make a statement. [80837]
Mr. Jon Owen JonesOn 1 April, 22 Local Health Groups became operational as sub committees of their health authorities. They are expected to make a major contribution in three main areas:
the development of health improvement programmes
developing the principles of clinical governance to improve the quality of primary health care; and
informing and developing the commissioning of hospital and community health services.
430WLocal Health Groups are coterminous with unitary authorities, with representatives of the local authorities on their boards; which will allow for more effective use of resources across the range of health and social services expenditure.
Following the transfer of functions, this issue will be a matter for the National Assembly.
§ Mr. Barry JonesTo ask the Secretary of State for Wales what(a) guidance and (b) new money he has given to primary care groups. [80836]
Mr. Jon Owen JonesWelsh Office guidance on establishing Local Health Groups was issued in October, followed by guidance on Remuneration and Human Resource, issued in December 1998.
£8.9 million previously used for the GP Fundholder Management allowance will be allocated to health authorities this year to cover the start up and operating costs of LHGs.
Following the transfer of functions, this issue will be a matter for the National Assembly.