§ Dr. StoateTo ask the Secretary of State for Health (1) what progress has been made towards setting up the fast-track elective surgery centres he announced in February; and if he will make a statement; [13490]
(2) if he will set up a dedicated fast-track elective surgery centre in the North Kent area. [13491]
§ Ms BlearsWe announced plans for 26 diagnostic and treatment centres (DTCs) in February. This put us well on course to exceed the target of 20 schemes developed by 2004 (with eight operational) which we set out in the NHS Plan. Work on the schemes is progressing and we are confident that at least eight of them will be receiving patients by 2004.
We are now looking at ways to extend the DTC programme, including in the south-east, and if possible to bring it forward. We will consider suitable proposals which stand to benefit even more patients.