DoH launches independent learning disability healthcare enquiry

The Department of Health (DoH) has announced the launch of an independent enquiry chaired by former chief executive of Guy’s Sir Jonathan Michael regarding the access to healthcare for those with learning disabilities.

Sir Jonathan will be joined by a panel announced by the department that includes consultant in social care Chris Davies, the heads of a number of NHS trusts and others.

The inquiry panel will initiate meetings with relevant stakeholders, while a separate reference group will also be established to guarantee the thoughts of carers and those using social care services are properly considered.

A major focus of the review will be to ensure that individuals with learning disabilities are provided with general acute health care, in addition to other healthcare services.

Sir Jonathan said: “I am pleased to have been asked to chair this important inquiry into access to appropriate healthcare for people with learning disabilities.”

He stated that he anticipates working with both providers and patients using services in order to investigate existing practices and underline potential lessons to be learned and avenues to follow for the implementation of best practice.

In January 2007, Mencap argued that the responsibility for care of patients with learning disabilities should be transferred to social services from the NHS.