asked the Minister for Health if he has agreed with the medical profession in respect of proposed alterations in health services on the method of payment of doctors; if not, why; how soon he expects to complete negotiations; if he has reached agreement, if he will now furnish details; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Remuneration of Doctors.
14.
I had a discussion early last month with representatives of the Irish Medical Association and the Medical Union about the recommendations of a working party consisting of members of these bodies and of my Department which had considered how a fee-for-service method for paying general practitioners might be operated. Arising out of that discussion the two bodies undertook to consult their members about the administrative and disciplinary procedures regarded by the working party as necessary in order to guard against abuse. I agreed to have further discussions with the profession when the result of these consultations was available. Some days ago I received replies from the two organisations which I am now considering.