Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 2 Mar 1999

Vol. 501 No. 3

Written Answers. - General Medical Services Scheme.

Ivor Callely

Question:

252 Mr. Callely asked the Minister for Health and Children if the GMS scheme is providing the required services to people who qualify; if he has satisfied himself that the GMS service providers and general practitioners are fully supportive of the scheme; and if his attention has been drawn to any concerns in this regard. [6195/99]

Minister for Health and Children (Mr. Cowen)

I am satisfied that the general medical services scheme is providing an appropriate level of service to eligible persons and that GMS scheme service providers and general practitioners participating in the scheme are fully supportive of the philosophy of the scheme to provide the highest level of patient service.

Notwithstanding that, there are always matters relating to the operation of any scheme as wide-ranging as the GMS scheme, which receive atten tion in my Department on an ongoing basis to ensure that such schemes are operating as effectively, efficiently and economically as they should be.

If the Deputy has any specific matters in mind in regard to the operation of the GMS scheme that he feels warrant particular attention he can, of course, bring them to my attention for examination.