asked the Minister for Health whether he is aware that doubt exists among those persons, who are entitled to free medical attendance, as to how they can avail of such services, and, if so, if he will make a statement clarifying the position.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Free Medical Attendance.
I am not aware that doubt exists among persons eligible for general medical services under the Health Act, 1953, as to the procedure to be adopted in applying for such services.
Persons requiring such services normally make written application to the secretary of the responsible health authority to have their names included in the general medical services register. I understand that local authorities have made forms for the purpose available at dispensaries, clinics and other health institutions and that the appropriate officers of those authorities have availed of contacts with recipients of home assistance, old age and blind pensioners, recipients of unemployment assistance or non-contributory widows' pensions, foster parents of boarded-out children, etc., to make the procedure known.
Where a person requires medical attention before his application has been considered by the health authority he can obtain a direction under Article 16 of the General Medical Services Regulations, 1954, from the local assistance officer or other authorised person which will entitle him and his dependents to the services of the district medical officer without further delay.