§ Mr. Paul MarsdenTo ask the Secretary of State for Health if patient groups were consulted on the development of the NHS survey of patients; and if he will make a statement. [92050]
§ Mr. DenhamA reference group, including representatives from the National Consumer Council, community health councils and the College of Health has advised on the general population and coronary heart disease surveys. A separate working group, including a number of cancer patient bodies, is currently working with the National Health Service Executive on the best approach to surveying patients with cancer. Qualitative research to establish the views of patients has also been undertaken in designing each of the surveys.
§ Mr. Paul MarsdenTo ask the Secretary of State for Health what steps were taken to ensure that a fair representation of minority groups, with particular reference to(a) ethnic minorities, (b) those with sight and hearing difficulties and (c) those with learning difficulties, were included in the NHS survey of patients. [92049]
§ Mr. DenhamThe patient survey questionnaire was issued to respondents drawn from the electoral roll. A comparison with independent data sources on a range of variables—such as ethnicity, social class, economic activity, and household composition—confirmed that the sample was nationally representative. A helpline was set up by the consortium administering the survey specifically to assist people who may have had difficulty in completing the questionnaire.