Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 2 Jun 1993

Vol. 431 No. 7

Written Answers - Hospital Out-Patient Charge.

Eamon Gilmore

Question:

89 Mr. Gilmore asked the Minister for Health the reason persons suffering from diabetes are now required to pay a hospital charge when they attend a hospital, whereas previously they did not have to pay; and when this change was made.

Minister for Health (Mr. Howlin)

I presume that the Deputy is referring to the statutory out-patient charge. With effect from 1 March, 1993 the previous charge of £10 for the first visit in relation to the treatment of a particular condition was replaced by a charge of £6 for each visit, subject to a maximum liability of £42 per individual in any period of twelve consecutive months.

Persons suffering from diabetes other than medical card holders were not exempt from the charge under the previous system and their position has not changed in that respect.

I have already announced that I am having a full review of public hospital charges carried out. I have received correspondence from the Irish Diabetic Association relating to the out-patient charge and I have asked the Review Group to look specifically at the points raised in the correspondence. Whatever changes are made as a result of this review will be implemented next year.