§ Dr. FoxTo ask the Secretary of State for Health which Government agencies are involved in schemes to offer patients choice in their NHS treatment. [129611]
§ Mr. HuttonNine choice pilot schemes are in operation. Local schemes covering a wide range of specialties are operating in Berkshire, Dorset and Somerset, Greater Manchester, London, Trent, Surrey and Sussex and West Yorkshire. In addition, we have a national coronary heart disease choice pilot and an ophthalmology choice pilot operating across the south of England. Strategic health authorities, primary care trusts and national health service trusts are involved in the planning and delivery of choice pilots. NHS Direct has also provided support to three pilot schemes that are operating with call centre based patient care advisers.