§ Mr. Paul MarsdenTo ask the hon. Member for Roxburgh and Berwickshire, representing the House of Commons Commission what services are available to hon. Members in accessing(a) a nurse, (b) a general practitioner and (c) a mental health professional within the precincts of the Palace of Westminster. [132302]
§ Sir Archy KirkwoodThe Occupational Health, Safety and Welfare Service (OHSWS) in the Department of Finance and Administration is an508W advisory service provided to both Houses of Parliament. The OHSWS assesses the effects work has on health and offers specialist advice on all aspects of health and safety in the workplace.
A walk-in treatment and advisory service is located in Lower Waiting Hall and is available to hon. Members and Peers during parliamentary sessions between 9am and 5pm on Mondays to Thursdays and between 9am and 4pm on Fridays.
A medical screening service is also offered on a three yearly rolling programme and an earlier appointment can be requested if required. This service is located in 7 Millbank and has been provided without interruption for more than ten years.
The OHSWS currently has two doctors: a consultant occupational physician working one day a week and a medical adviser who works three days a week. There are three qualified nurses (one full-time, two part-time). In addition, the Occupational Health Manager is a qualified nurse, and is full-time. The House does not employ any mental health professionals, but the doctors maintain close links with consultant psychiatrists at St Thomas's Hospital from whom advice can be sought.
The House does not provide general practitioner services, but the OHSWS is in discussion with a local practice about the possibility of providing an emergency GP service for Members and Peers. hon Members will be informed should such a service become available.