Welfare Reform on the Web (June 2000): Services for the Disabled - UK

FULLY EQUIPPED: THE PROVISION OF EQUIPMENT TO OLDER OR DISABLED PEOPLE BY THE NHS AND SOCIAL SERVICES IN ENGLAND AND WALES

Audit Commission

Audit Commission Publications, 2000

Finds that there are unacceptable variations in services providing orthopaedic footwear, external splints and callipers, surgical collars, artificial limbs, audiology and wheelchairs. Senior managers neglect equipment services, which are under-resourced and poorly planned as a result. Recommends that specialist rehabilitation centres should be created for a range of services; that NHS and social services equipment stores should be combined; that equipment services should be included in national priorities guidance and the forthcoming national service framework for older people's and that equipment tracking should be improved.