Gay Mitchell
Question:175 Mr. G. Mitchell asked the Minister for Health and Children if he will consider legislation and-or guidelines for cosmetic surgery clinics in view of the experience of a person (details supplied) in County Cork. [3887/01]
Written Answers. - Cosmetic Surgery Clinics.
I am aware of the case referred to by the Deputy and I can understand the extreme distress which the person concerned is experiencing as a consequence of the outcome of her surgery. The surgery was performed at a clinic which is not part of the public health services. In cases where a person is dissatisfied with the services provided by such a clinic, it is open to that person to seek redress through civil law or, if a medical practitioner is involved, to make a complaint to the Medical Council. The council is the statutory body established to provide for the registration and control of persons engaged in the practice of medicine under the Medical Practitioners Act, 1978. Doctors are required to be registered with the council to practice medicine in Ireland. The Act is currently under review. Among the proposals being considered are greater public representation on the council and a more open and responsive approach to dealing with complaints against doctors and arrangements for periodic competence assurance.