Wes Streeting reiterates pledge to end bone scan postcode lottery
by Charlotte Bend · Mail OnlineWes Streeting has pledged to ‘keep the promise’ in backing The Mail on Sunday’s campaign to end the postcode lottery of vital bone scans.
The Health Secretary has restated his commitment to provide universal access to Fracture Liaison Services (FLS) by 2030.
The specialist clinics help identify osteoporosis early – but are available in only about half of NHS Trusts.
Mr Streeting said Labour ‘made the promise, and now we will keep the promise’ to start rolling out the scans to all.
He said: ‘FLS aren’t just good for patients’, they are also ‘a service to the taxpayer as well through saving money’.
Research shows patient access to FLS prevents life-changing injuries, helps people stay in the workforce and frees up hospital beds.
Craig Jones, chief executive of the Royal Osteoporosis Society, said: ‘No one can doubt Wes Streeting’s commitment to these crucial preventative services. But we need him to persuade the Chancellor, Rachel Reeves, to act.’