§ Linda GilroyTo ask the Secretary of State for Health what assessment he has made of NHS progress with respect to(a) prevention of osteoporosis and (b) treatment of women who are (i) at high risk of osteoporotic fracture and (ii) have sustained a fragility fracture. [158868]
§ Dr. LadymanThe prevention, treatment, care and support of those at risk of osteoporosis are important components in the delivery of the integrated falls services that the national service framework for older people requires to be in place locally by April 2005. The Department will be monitoring formally the 2005 milestone as this is included as one of the key targets in "Improvement, Expansion and Reform", the priorities and planning framework for 2003–2006. All strategic health authorities (SHAs) except one currently report that the April 2005 target will be achieved in their area. The Department has offered support to the SHA that may have difficulty meeting the target across the whole of its area.
§ Linda GilroyTo ask the Secretary of State for Health what he assesses will be the effect of National Institute for Clinical Excellence guidance proposed in the osteoporosis appraisal consultation document on standard six of the National Service Framework for Older People. [158869]
§ Dr. LadymanStandard six of the national service framework for older people sets out clear milestones for the National Health Service, working in partnership with councils, to take action to prevent falls and reduce resultant fractures or other injuries in their populations of older people.
The National Institute for Clinical Excellence's technology appraisal will give doctors the latest evidence-based information on the most effective treatments for osteoporosis. This will ensure that patients have access to dear, authoritative advice on the sort of treatment that might be best for them.