Richard Bruton
Question:234 Mr. R. Bruton asked the Minister for Health if he will consider changes in the medical card scheme and in the VHI rules which would permit established procedures in alternative medicine to be covered.
Written Answers. - Medical Card Scheme.
I do not intend to introduce changes in the medical card scheme in relation to alternative medical treatments. Under Section 58 of the Health Act, 1970, a health board is obliged to make available, without charge, a general practitioner medical and surgical service for persons with full eligibility. It is the responsibility of the general practitioner to provide for appropriate diagnosis, treatment and care at the primary health care level.
I do not propose to request the VHI Board to provide cover for established procedures in alternative medicine.