To ask the Secretary of State for Health what his policy is on routine follow-up tests for people who have suffered heart attacks and suspected heart attacks; and if he will make a statement. [126007]
Provision for cardiac rehabilitation is addressed in Standard 12 of the national service framework (NSF) for coronary heart disease. This states:
Service models for the delivery of this standard are set out in the NSF."National Health Service trusts should put in place agreed protocols/systems of care so that, prior to leaving hospital, people admitted to hospital suffering from coronary heart disease have been invited to participate in a multidisciplinary programme of secondary prevention and cardiac rehabilitation. The aim of the programme will be to reduce their risk of subsequent cardiac problems and to promote their return to a full and normal life."
To ask the Secretary of State for Health what steps he is taking to reduce waiting times for cardiology appointments; and if he will make a statement. [126008]
Rapid access chest pain clinics (RACPCs), supported by clear referral criteria and protocols for investigation, can provide rapid diagnosis and assessment of people with suspected angina.There is now a RACPC in every acute trust in England, working to ensure that all patients are seen within two weeks of a general practitioner referral.For other cardiologist referrals, the Coronary Heart Disease Collaborative is working with local health services to support them in reducing waiting times.