Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 30 Jan 1990

Vol. 394 No. 8

Written Answers. - Consultants' Fees.

Ivan Yates

Question:

40 Mr. Yates asked the Minister for Health, in view of the fact that full cover and indemnity is not available for consultants fees to VHI members even with the maximum fee units in their premium payments, if he will consider setting up some independent arbitration process whereby consultants and the VHI can agree levels of fees, and thereafter give full cover, in view of the fact that patients are suffering by having to pay the difference between the amount which the VHI will approve and the actual consultants fees.

Minister for Health (Dr. O'Hanlon)

I am aware that discussions are at an advanced stage between VHI and the medical profession, to establish a basis for agreed fees which would enable full cover to be made available. These discussions have my full support. I am informed by the VHI Board that arbitration may become an integral part of any agreement reached.