§ Lord Morris of Manchesterasked Her Majesty's Government:
What discussions the National Health Service has had with the British Healthcare Trades Association on provision of closed circuit television to improve the well-being of patients with age-related macular degeneration; what the outcome of any such discussions has been; and whether they will consider a pilot study, supported by clinical input, of improvements that can be achieved by such provision. [HL2091]
§ Baroness AndrewsThe Department of Health has had no discussions with the British Healthcare Trades Association on the provision of closed circuit television reading aids (CCTVs) to patients with age-related macular degeneration.
36WASocial services departments can provide CCTV if it is felt to be warranted in particular cases. However this will be the exception rather than the rule. The majority of patients with reading difficulties as a result of vision loss will have access to optical low vision aids such as high-powered reading lenses, magnifiers and telescopes, on loan through the Hospital Eye Service. In addition, some primary care trusts have local arrangements for the provision of low vision aids.