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Out-Patients (Surgical Appliance Charges)

Volume 499: debated on Thursday 24 April 1952

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68.

asked the Minister of Health whether he is aware that hospital out-patients who are awaiting the delivery of surgical appliances have been asked to sign a declaration that if the National Health Bill, 1952, becomes law before delivery they will agree to pay whatever charges become payable; and if, in view of the fact that when the National Health Services Act, 1946, came into operation hospitals honoured arrangements previously made with patients, he will take steps to see that patients are similarly treated in this case.

As my right hon. Friend stated on the Second Reading of the Bill, it is proposed that under the Regulations under Clause 1 charges will be payable for appliances supplied after the operative date of the Regulations, and my right hon. Friend has suggested to hospitals that, in fairness to those concerned, they should warn patients of the position which may arise.