asked the Minister for Health if, in view of the fact that no VHI coverage is at present available to cover the cost of routine maternity treatment, he will introduce a scheme for free ante-natal and post-natal services for all expectant mothers.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Maternity Treatment Scheme
27.
Ante-natal and post-natal services are at present available free of charge for mothers who have either full or limited eligibility. These categories represent about 85 per cent of the population. I have no plans to extend these services to all mothers.
Is the Minister aware that this could have serious repercussions on ante-natal and post-natal care, infant mortality and other aspects of health care for young children because of those who may be deprived of these services through no fault of their own but due to the fact that they are not able to pay for private services?
I do not think I would be prepared to accept that as a general proposition. The 85 per cent of the population expected to need assistance at this time are catered for.
I would accept that if the 85 per cent represented the lower income group, but it does not. Unfortunately, because this scheme is riddled with so many anomalies, there are people in need who are not able to pay for ante-natal and post-natal services at the moment and this could be jeopardising their health. Would the Minister not consider that to be very serious?
This is one of the areas which we keep under review. One approach of course is through insurance but, as the Deputy pointed out, the VHI is not available at present.
This is where the conflict arises, in ante-natal and post-natal care.