§ Mr. BrakeTo ask the Secretary of State for Health what progress has been made in implementing the recommendations made by the Independent Review Group set up to examine the health risks of silicone gel breast implants relating to(a) information about benefits and risks of surgery for patients undergoing cosmetic breast augmentation surgery, (b) advertisements promoting breast implant surgery, (c) a consent form which incorporates the issues to be discussed between surgeons and women considering breast implantation, (d) measures to ensure that standards of care in private clinics, (e) registration of details of each breast implant and explain, (f) reporting breast implant-related adverse incidents, (g) information to patients on the likely financial implications of breast implant surgery and (h) a steering group to organise research. [112549]
§ Mr. DenhamA group chaired by the noble Baroness Emerton of Tunbridge Wells is producing an information booklet for women who are contemplating having breast implants. The booklet will provide expanded information on the issues identified by the Independent Review Group, including consent and financial implications. This will be available shortly.
There have been discussions between the Advertising Standards Authority and Departmental officials about advertising, and we are currently considering how best to take this matter forward.
411WThe use of such forms is good practice, and in 1992 the Department issued model consent forms which can be adapted by National Health Service trusts for any procedure. This will be supported by the information leaflet which will give advice to women on the questions they will need to ask surgeons before giving consent.
We are committed to introducing new and modern regulatory arrangements for independent healthcare provision through the Care Standards Bill, which is currently before Parliament. Copies of the Government's response to the Health Committee report of the regulation of private healthcare are available in the Library.
The group's recommendations on registration were about ensuring good clinical practice. Measures are also in hand, through initiatives such as the Care Standards Agency and the National Institute for Clinical Excellence, to increase compliance with good clinical practice in both the public and the private sector.
The Medical Devices Agency guidance was published last year on the reporting of adverse incidents. This was circulated to liaison officers in the public and the private sectors, to all members of the British Association of Plastic Surgeons and the British Association of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons, and to manufacturers. Copies are available in the Library.
A steering group has been established within the Department to identify suitable approaches that could lead to research of high scientific quality into breast implants and cosmetic surgery. The group's membership includes a consultant plastic surgeon, an Emeritus Professor of immunology, a representative from industry and the Chairman of the NHS Health Technology Assessment programme.