The Act – Overview Part 4 - Provision of Communication Equipment Section 33 – Duty to provide or secure communication equipment
112.Section 33 of the Act inserts new section 46A into the National Health Service (Scotland) Act 1978 (“the 1978 Act”). Section 46A places a duty on the Scottish Ministers to provide or secure the provision of communication equipment, and the support in using that equipment, to any person who has lost their voice or has difficulty speaking (both children and adults). The equipment and support is to be provided to such an extent as the Scottish Ministers consider necessary to meet all reasonable requirements.
113.Whilst the duty is being placed on the Scottish Ministers, there is provision within the 1978 Act which allows for the Scottish Ministers’ functions under that Act (such as this new duty) to be delivered by Health Boards.