Oral Answers to Questions

Debate between Paul Burstow and Denis MacShane

Tuesday 25th January 2011 Commons Chamber

[Paul Burstow]

As part of a wider programme, a demonstrator project looking at telemedicine and telecare, we are looking at a possible roll-out of such approaches. In regard to the specific case of the Airedale NHS Foundation Trust, I would be only too happy to look further at the details and the benefits that have arisen.

[Mr Denis MacShane (Rotherham) (Lab)]

Telemedicine is obviously a help, but nothing beats talking to a real human being about our medical problems. Would the ministerial team consider copying the Conservative-Liberal Government in Sweden, who have banned from all public agencies, including health agencies, automatic answering machines—the kind that tell us to “Press 1”, “Press 2” or “Press 3”? Instead, people calling those agencies have to speak to a real live Swede in Sweden. Would not that be a good step forward for our health service?

[Paul Burstow]

The right hon. Gentleman has found a cunning way of getting in a point that does not directly relate to the question. He makes a very fair point, however. It is important that people should feel confident that, when they pick up the phone and make a call, they can speak to a person. Telemedicine can provide that route as well, through allowing people to get a diagnosis and treatment, as well as access to the appropriate support at the right time.