SDLP Foyle MP Mark Durkan is backing a pledge to improve patient access to medical technology – organised by the Medical Technology Group, a coalition of patient groups, research charities and medical device manufacturers, which is committed to increasing patient access to high quality, life-improving medical technologies to all who need it.
“Medical technologies” is a term that comprises all sorts of items. Anything from a bandage or a wheelchair, to an insulin pump or a hip joint replacement is classed as a medical technology.
Mr Durkan said: “Medical technologies can be very effective for patients with a range of conditions, helping them return to work, care for loved ones, or enabling them to be looked after at home. They can also save the NHS money by reducing the number and length of stays in hospital.
“But access to medical technology is not possible for many people who need it, and that’s why I’m supporting the Medical Technology Group’s pledge.”
The pledge states: “We believe it is crucially important that patients should have access to medical technologies recommended by NICE (National Institute for Health and Care Excellence) if clinically appropriate for them wherever they live in the UK.”
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