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Disabled people
Limbs, prosthetics and surgical appliances
You can get artificial limbs and surgical appliances and have them maintained and repaired for free on the National Health Service.
Artificial limbs and prosthetics
Your hospital consultant will refer you to your nearest 'Disablement Services Centre'. These centres are usually attached to regional hospitals.
Each limb needs to be individually made and fitted for each patient and there is a need for expert clinical supervision of the entire surgical, fitting and support process. You should also receive training on how to use your artificial limb.
Surgical appliances
If you need a surgical appliance, your doctor will refer you to a healthcare professional who can supply or prescribe an appliance to meet your needs.
Some examples of surgical appliances are:
- elastic hosiery
- trusses
- leg appliances and surgical footwear
- abdominal and spinal supports
- surgical brassieres
- artificial breasts
- arm, neck and head appliances
- wigs
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