NHS reforms to tackle health inequalities and the call for an inquiry into deaths in hospital of people with learning disabilities

12th March 2007

DRC to respond to NHS reforms for tackling health inequalities and the call for an inquiry into deaths in hospital of people with learning disabilities

Today, the Department of Health has issued its initial response to a formal investigation by the Disability Rights Commission (DRC) into tackling the deep health inequalities experienced by people with learning disabilities and people with mental health problems in GP and other primary care services (1). The investigation found that despite both of these groups often having the worst health they often get the worst healthcare.

Sir Bert Massie, Chairman of the DRC, said: “The DRC’s investigation revealed shocking levels of ill health amongst people with learning disabilities and those with mental health problems for some of Britain’s biggest killer health conditions - including heart problems, strokes and bowel cancer - yet many were not getting access to vital tests and treatments. The DRC will be considering the Department’s recommendations and will respond shortly.”

On the Health Secretary’s, Patricia Hewitt, announcement to set up an independent inquiry into six people with learning disabilities who died in hospital, as highlighted in a report by Mencap today, Sir Bert said:

"The report provides a grim coda to the DRC's own investigation into the treatment of people with learning disabilities in primary care services where many were not getting access to the tests and treatments to common, preventable health problems.

"The Government response in setting up its own inquiry into the poor healthcare standards is welcome. Everyone needs to be secure in the knowledge that the NHS will do all it can to treat you. That certainty of equality of treatment must be there for disabled people as much as it is for others."

For more information contact Sue Pratt, DRC Press Office, on 020 7543 7042 or 07971 590 002.

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