Vol. 474 No. 1
52 Mr. Flood asked the Minister for Social Welfare if his attention has been drawn to complaints from clients of the Social Welfare Appeals Office that adequate examinations do not take place in the matter of social welfare appeals; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [2627/97]
Two written complaints were received in 1996 from persons in respect of medical examinations arising from cases under appeal. As with all such complaints these were investigated and the persons concerned notified of the outcome.
Every effort is made to ensure that the interests of persons called for examination are fully safeguarded. Their own doctors are advised of the forthcoming examinations and invited to submit an appropriate medical report, including any recent consultant reports. In addition, the person's doctor may attend the examination if he or she so wishes. A nurse attendant is always present during examinations.
All of the Department's medical assessors are qualified doctors and have been specially trained to carry out medical reviews and assessments. They operate under the general management of the Department's medical adviser. The medical assessor does not make an initial diagnosis of a case, as this is already done by the person's own doctor, but provides a medical opinion as to a person's continued eligibility for benefit.
In carrying out examinations the medical assessor reviews the history of the case, considers any fresh medical reports received and expresses an opinion on the extent to which the incapacity, at that point in time, affects the person's ability to work.
