To J Newman
C/o xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx@xxxxxxxxxxxxxx.xxx
DWP Central Freedom of Information Team
e-mail: xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx@xxx.xxx.xxx.xx
Our Ref: VTR 2629-3578
DATE 23 December 2011
Dear Mr J Newman,
Thank you for your Freedom of Information request that was received by the Department for
Work and Pensions (DWP) Adelphi on 27 November 2011 and forwarded for response by
DWP Commercial Management of Medical Services (CMMS) Freedom of Information Officer.
In your email you asked to be provided with information answering the following questions:-
Dear DWP Adelphi Freedom-of-Information-Request,
Are you saying here that HCPs need detailed diagnostic knowledge, but do not use it?
If so, are you sure that HCPs other than qualified doctors (nurses, midwives, physiotherapists
etc) have this depth of knowledge – my GP understandably says they would not.
In answer to your question it was not said in the previous response that HCPs need detailed
diagnostic knowledge, but did not use it. The response stated that there is no requirement for
HCps to be a Diagnostic Specialist or Consultant in a specific medical condition.
The law defines "a Healthcare Professional" (HCP) as a registered doctor, registered nurse,
physiotherapist, or occupational therapist. This came into effect on 3rd July 2007 in Statutory
Instrument 2007 No 1626 The Social Security (Miscellaneous Amendments) (No.2)
Regulations 2007.
The role of the HCP within the medical assessment process is to provide an independent,
impartial assessment of the functional effects of the claimant’s disabling condition, and the
claimant’s ability to perform activities within each of the functional areas by choosing the
descriptors that they consider appropriate on the medical report they complete. This opinion is
based on interview with the claimant, observations and an appropriate clinical examination.
This assessment unlike the more widely known type of medical examination is not concerned
with diagnosis or decisions about treatment.
HCP’s are also fully trained in Disability Assessment Medicine. Expertise in this field qualifies
the HCP to give an impartial, independent assessment on the way in which a claimant’s illness
or disability affects them in carrying out of a range of everyday work-related activities. Training
includes the assessment of the effects of specific conditions, for example mental health, or
where a condition may fluctuate. Emphasis is always placed on the differing circumstances of
each individual claimant. They also receive training in claimant rights, equal opportunities and
professional standards.
All HCP’s have passed strict recruitment and experience criteria and are registered with an
appropriate professional body such as the General Medical Council, Health Professions
Council or the Nursing and Midwifery Council.
If you have any queries about this letter please contact me quoting the reference number
above.
Yours sincerely,
DWP Central FoI Team
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Your right to complain under the Freedom of Information Act
If you are not happy with this response you may request an internal review by e-mailing freedom-of-information-
xxxxxxx@xxx.xxx.xxx.xx or by writing to DWP, Central FoI Team, 5th Floor The Adelphi, 1-11, John Adam Street,
London WC2N 6HT. Any review request should be submitted within two months of the date of this letter.
If you are not content with the outcome of the internal review you may apply directly to the Information
Commissioner’s Office for a decision. Generally the Commissioner cannot make a decision unless you have
exhausted our own complaints procedure. The Information Commissioner can be contacted at: The Information
Commissioner’s Office, Wycliffe House, Water Lane, Wilmslow Cheshire SK9 5AF www.ico.gov.uk