To ask the Secretary of State for Health what guidance is given to NHS trusts on prioritising young people for treatment when they have been diagnosed with cardiac abnormalities. [R][118524]

Young people diagnosed with cardiac abnormalities should be prioritised for treatment according to their medical need. This is a matter for the medical professionals involved in their care.The report of the paediatric and congenital cardiac services review group, which was published for consultation in November 2002, contains proposed quality standards for paediatric and congenital cardiac services. Ministers are currently considering the responses received to the consultation before determining the best way forward. A copy of the consultation report is available at www.doh.gov.uk/ childcardiac/reviewnov02.htm and in the Library.