Written Question · S3W-28948 · Session 3
Further to the answers to questions S3W-27498 and S3W-27497 by Nicola Sturgeon on 28 September 2009, for what reason it will not issue guid…
The question
To ask the Scottish Executive, further to the answers to questions S3W-27498 and S3W-27497 by Nicola Sturgeon on 28 September 2009, for what reason it will not issue guidance to NHS boards requiring them to reopen negotiations with service providers of bedhead inpatient telephone services in order to reduce charges, despite issuing guidance to boards in relation to the use of premium rate telephone numbers by medical practices.
The answer
Bedhead inpatient telephone services have been installed in hospitals, under arrangements agreed locally by NHS boards as an additional and optional means of communication for patients. NHS boards and NHS National Services Scotland have direct responsibility for negotiating these contracts. We have recently reminded NHS boards of the need to ensure that patients have access to public and portable payphones.
Negotiations in relation to the issue of guidance on the use of premium rate telephone numbers by medical practices are ongoing.
Negotiations in relation to the issue of guidance on the use of premium rate telephone numbers by medical practices are ongoing.
In the Official Report
No contribution in the Official Report cites S3W-28948 by reference.