Department of Health and Social Security Hannibal House Elephant and Castle London SE1 6TE
Telephone 01-703 6380 ext 3537
DHSS
Telex 883669
LP1
Your reference
Our reference
H2/R78/12
Date
Dear
REPATRIATION OF HOSPITAL IN-PATIENTS
I expect you are aware that there is no statutory authority under the National Health Service Act whereby the cost of repatriation of hospital in-patients can be met from public funds. After ascertaining that the patient is willing to be repatriated, it must therefore be determined whether the following sources can meet or contribute towards the patient's fare and that of an escort (if necessary):
a.
b.
c.
the patient.
his/her relatives, here and in the home country.
Home Government.
If investigation of these sources fails to provide the necessary money, the Area Health Authority/Board of Governors should apply on the following lines to this Department for authority to use public funds, which will come out of its allocation:-
1.
it should be confirmed that the above sources cannot cover the cost.
2.
the proposed method of travel should be stated.
3.
an exact as possible estimation of the patient's fare should be given.
4.
If an escort is required, his fare (single or return) and any subsistence allowance will need to be known. If not, it is desirable that confirmation be obtained from the airline or
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