Oral Answers to Questions

Debate between Dan Poulter and Baroness Burt of Solihull

Tuesday 15th January 2013 Commons Chamber

[Lorely Burt (Solihull) (LD)]

13. What plans he has to review urgent care services.

[The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Health (Dr Daniel Poulter)]

The configuration of urgent care services is a matter for the local NHS, and commissioners should ensure that there is provision of appropriate urgent care services locally to provide safe and effective care for patients.

[Lorely Burt]

A review of urgent care services by the new GP-led clinical commissioning group for Solihull is causing consternation as it is throwing the future of our highly regarded walk-in centre into doubt. Does the Minister agree that users must be properly consulted, as services must be designed around patients, and that allocation to cost centres must come second to delivering services?

[Dr Poulter]

I agree with my hon. Friend. Where there are well-functioning local services that have local support, commissioners should recognise that in their decisions, but it is also important to highlight that any reconfiguration of local services has to meet the four tests laid down by the previous Secretary of State: support from GP commissioners; strengthened public and patient engagement; clarity on the clinical evidence base; and support for patient choice. I hope that reassures my hon. Friend.