Posted: 23-Mar-2006 << BACK
The Skipton Fund: Appeals Panel Update
An independent Appeals Panel is finally being set up to reconsider the cases of any claimants who appeal against individual decisions made by the Skipton Fund ie who have been deemed not eligible for payment.
The Department of Health has started the process of recruiting the members for the independent Appeals Panel. The Panel will be chaired by a legal professional and will be supported by three medical members (a GP, a haematologist and a hepatologist) and a lay member. The lay member must be able to 'represent public opinion and bring a non-scientific perspective to the work of the Panel.' 'All members will be excellent communicators, able to analyse complex information and make impartial judgements.' The closing date for applications for the appointments is 28th April 2006 and 'it is anticipated the Panel will begin work in July 2006.' If you want to apply for a post call 0870 240 3802 during office hours or go to :www.appointments.org.uk, quoting reference NAT216, for an information pack and application form (which are available in large type or Braille or on tape).
Figures from the Skipton Fund up to end of February 2006
Stage one applications Stage two applications
Applications received 3904 582
Applications paid 3441 481
Applications declined 304* 101**
Applications not fully completed/
returned to the applicants clinician 159 0
* 165 of which not eligible due to spontaneous clearance
** deferred because the claimants do not yet meet the criteria.
For more information on the Skipton Fund click here
