HC Deb 10 May 2001 vol 368 cc365-6W
Dr. Stoate

To ask the Secretary of State for Health how many echocardiography technicians were employed by the NHS for each of the last five years. [160603]

Mr. Denham

Data for the professions in health care science are not collected to this level.

Dr. Stoate

To ask the Secretary of State for Health if he will make a statement on the recruitment and retention of cardiac technicians accredited by the British Society of Echocardiography to carry out echocardiography, within the NHS. [160604]

Mr. Denham

We are implementing a range of measures to improve recruitment and retention for all staff, including cardiac technicians accredited by the British Society of Echocardiography to carry out echocardiography. We are investing in fair pay, encouraging the National Health Service to become a better employer, increasing training attracting former staff back to the NHS and encouraging flexible retirement.

Dr. Stoate

To ask the Secretary of State for Health what representations he has received from the British Society of Echocardiography regarding concerns about the recognition of specialised echo technicians in the NHS. [160605]

Mr. Denham

We have not received any representations.

Dr. Stoate

To ask the Secretary of State for Health what steps he has taken to increase the number of dedicated echocardiography technicians in the NHS. [160606]

Mr. Denham

The Department is carrying out a review of the health care scientist work force. The need for an increase in the number of echocardiography technicians will be considered as part of the review.