Health Bill [HL]

I thank the noble Baroness, Lady Masham, for proposing the amendment. It is evident from what has been said around the Committee today that the clinical pathways have not been sufficient to meet the needs. It is around the clinical pathways and quality of care which the Bill centres. There is obviously a great need, particularly in general hospitals, where patients go inappropriately and where there is insufficient knowledge, training and skills to be able to cope with spinal injuries and neurological conditions. While other conditions may well come to fore by our saying that the clinical pathways are not being met, spinal injuries are very important in terms of quality of life and future development. By way of an interim measure, a bureau which supplied immediate care for people suffering from a spinal injury would perhaps stop inappropriate suffering and even death of patients. I very much hope that the Minister will support the amendment.