Contributions
2,121 recent contributions in Hansard
HANSARDUnpaid Carers: Patient Hospital DischargeI can see the pressure and difficulties that can bring. There is a range of reasons why discharges do not take place in a timely fashion—not just processes but the interface…19 Mar 2026HANSARDGP ContractIf I have understood the noble Baroness correctly—forgive me if I have not—the GP contract does not address that directly. That is obviously a more general but important point…17 Mar 2026HANSARDGP ContractAll the systems are under constant review. It might be helpful if I point out to the noble Baroness that one of the key things in the GP contract for 2026-27 is the requirement…17 Mar 2026HANSARDGP ContractThe right reverend Prelate is right to raise this. We have been very concerned for some time about the inequalities in coastal areas and areas of greatest need, where healthy life…17 Mar 2026HANSARDGP ContractIt is important to say that online access does not sit alone. There is also in-person access, including telephone access if people prefer that. The intention is not—and it is not…17 Mar 2026HANSARDGP ContractWe have already said that through our 10-year plan, and this contract very much ties into the main pillars of the plan. We found GP services in a very difficult and challenging…17 Mar 2026HANSARDGP ContractWhen we develop digital approaches, I have to say again that the figures speak for themselves on, for example, patient satisfaction with general practice: people believe it is…17 Mar 2026HANSARDGP ContractAs the noble Lord said, we have seen 1.3 million people diverted since April 2025. Otherwise, they would have been added to the electives waiting list, in clinical terms,…17 Mar 2026HANSARDNHS: In-house Software CapabilitiesAbsolutely—public confidence is really important, and the debate around this today perhaps emphasises the need to communicate the realities of what is going on. But giving the NHS…16 Mar 2026HANSARDNHS: In-house Software CapabilitiesI would first look at delivery: the federated data platform has enabled nearly 100,000 extra operations, removed over 600,000 patients from waiting lists and reduced unnecessary…16 Mar 2026HANSARDNHS: In-house Software CapabilitiesThat seamless movement is an important point generally, but the federated data platform does not centralise or sell patient data. Data remains firmly under NHS control, and access…16 Mar 2026HANSARDNHS: In-house Software CapabilitiesCyber attacks across our whole government are extremely concerning, and that is why we have built resilience. On health and social care specifically, I can assure the noble Lord…16 Mar 2026HANSARDNHS: In-house Software CapabilitiesIf the noble Lord has particular companies in mind, he is most welcome to raise them with me. It is important that we look at what NHS teams have done: they have designed, built…16 Mar 2026HANSARDNHS: In-house Software CapabilitiesThe straightforward answer is that we are doing exactly that. It is important to say that our front-line digitisation—our move from analogue to digital—is not something for the…16 Mar 2026HANSARDNHS: In-house Software CapabilitiesMy noble friend is right to point out the history. The NHS previously relied very heavily on large, outsourced IT systems that, in some cases, led to inflexibility, high long-term…16 Mar 2026HANSARDNHS: In-house Software CapabilitiesMy Lords, NHS Digital services are built and run to rigorous Government Digital Service standards. They are secure, user-centred, interoperable and continually improving. National…16 Mar 2026HANSARDNHS: Heart Valve DiseaseI am reassured that the noble Lord can assist within five minutes—we might consider engaging him. The serious point is that early diagnosis is important, and the modern service…12 Mar 2026HANSARDNHS: Heart Valve DiseaseThe noble Lord is quite right: women are underdiagnosed, they are undertreated and some ethnic minority groups face poorer access. That is why I very much welcome the fact that,…12 Mar 2026HANSARDNHS: Heart Valve DiseaseI am sorry to hear the experience that the noble Baroness describes. We are indeed seeking to have a whole-team approach to the whole patient. I absolutely agree with her that it…12 Mar 2026HANSARDNHS: Heart Valve DiseaseMy Lords, to accelerate the 10-year health plan ambition to reduce premature mortality from heart disease and stroke by 25% and to tackle unwarranted variation across the country,…12 Mar 2026