Oral Answers to Questions

Debate between Paul Burstow and John Leech

Tuesday 7th December 2010 Commons Chamber

[Mr John Leech (Manchester, Withington) (LD)]

11. What progress has been made on improving the provision of specialist neuromuscular physiotherapy for people with muscular dystrophy and related neuromuscular conditions; and if he will make a statement.

[The Minister of State, Department of Health (Paul Burstow)]

Physiotherapy can help to manage the physical deterioration associated with muscular dystrophy and other neuromuscular conditions. Physiotherapists have a key role to play in reducing waiting times, improving access and choice, and providing more personalised services closer to home, thereby improving the quality of life of their patients. It is for local NHS organisations to decide how best to use the funds allocated to meet health needs.

[Mr Leech]

I thank my hon. Friend for his answer. Will he meet me and campaigners from the North West Muscle Group to discuss what actions need to be taken to ensure ongoing physiotherapy for patients with neuromuscular diseases?

[Paul Burstow]

I am grateful to my hon. Friend for that question, and I know that he plays an active part in the all-party muscular dystrophy group. He was involved in ensuring that we had a report from that body on access to specialist neuromuscular care—the Walton report, an important report that mapped out many of the deficiencies in the current service. I would be happy to meet him and his friends to discuss the matter further.