Breeda Moynihan-Cronin
Question:35 Mrs. Moynihan-Cronin asked the Minister for Health and Children if he intends to set up a statutory council for VHI users; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15917/97]
Written Answers. - VHI Member's Advisory Council.
I am conscious that private medical insurers should be sensitive and responsive to the needs of their customers and that there should be avenues through which customers may pursue grievances against an insurer.
In the VHI's case, at the beginning of last year, the board established a members' advisory council. The chairman in his report on the VHI's activities for the year ending February 1997, which was published on 24 July 1997, referred to the council's assistance in the effective running of the VHI. He pointed out that the existence of the council as an independent entity representing a high proportion of the membership of the VHI had proved extremely useful for discussing issues and proposed developments. I am satisfied that the council continues to operate for the benefit of the members of the VHI. I also wish to point out that the VHI is a member of the Insurance Ombudsman of Ireland scheme. The scheme provides VHI members with an independent avenue through which to pursue complaints, disputes or claims arising out of their policies. In view of the above considerations, particularly the effective working of the existing members' advisory council, it is not my intention, at this time, to establish a statutory users' council.