§ Sandra OsborneTo ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions what incentive system there is for the independent medical examiners contracted by SchlumbergerSema in respect of the personal capability assessment for incapacity benefit; and if he will make a statement. [102124]
§ Mr. Nicholas BrownSessional doctors contracted by SchlumbergerSema to carry out medical assessments in respect of benefit claims are paid on a fee per assessment basis. Safeguards are in place to ensure that appropriate quality standards are maintained.
Decisions on entitlement to benefit are made by Departmental decision makers, and there is no link between doctors' remuneration and the outcome of a claim.