Welfare Reform Bill

In terms of working with GPs and health professionals generally, ideas are being looked at for improving the flow of information, making forms easier, using electronic communication and working closely with GPs through the provision of information and training materials to help them to understand how they can help their patients by getting right behind this. That is the ““carrot”” side of things. It is also possible, by monitoring the performance of GPs and involving Atos Origin doctors, to encourage them to speed up the process of information provision—and the department’s medical adviser could be brought in to encourage GPs and suggest that their PCT could be in touch with them with regard to their contractual obligations if they do not improve. All those discussions are going on to promote a positive engagement with GPs. So far as I am aware, they are doing quite well in promoting engagement. Of course, it is not just about GPs; other health professionals have an enormous amount to offer and have shown real willingness to engage and help their patients by providing ready information. To answer the question of the noble Lord, Lord Skelmersdale, about when the information is required, it is mainly required before the assessment, but if it is required afterwards the decision-maker will take it into account, provided that the information is obtained in advance of a decision being made.