(2) how many free vascular risk assessments have been provided under the Government's Putting Prevention First programme in each primary care trust.
From 2009-10, the national health service is being asked to implement a vascular risk assessment and management programme or ‘vascular checks’ for people in England aged between 40 and 74, the proposals for which were set out in “Putting Prevention First” published on 1 April 2008, copies have already been placed in the Library. This programme will help ensure greater focus on the prevention of cardiovascular disease, diabetes and kidney disease and will help people remain well for longer.
There is already a considerable amount of prevention and risk management activity taking place in primary care trusts in relation to individual conditions such as coronary heart disease and diabetes. There are no central records of exact numbers. The aim of the vascular checks initiative is to build on this valuable work so that the advantages of risk assessment and management are available to all who are able to benefit. The Department is currently working with stakeholders including commissioners, general practice and the pharmacy sector, on how best to do this.