Vol. 560 No. 1
721 Mr. Cregan asked the Minister for Health and Children if acupuncture services are available under the medical card scheme; if not, the reason therefor; if the Irish Medical Organisation are against the suggestion; if he will consider making such a change which would greatly benefit those who feel such treatment is of help to them; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1867/03]
The general medical services scheme is a treatment based scheme which provides for a range of services and the supply of drugs and medicines from an approved list, free of charge to medical card patients. These services are provided by general practitioners, community pharmacists, dentists and other health care professionals who hold contracts with the local health boards.
Since acupuncture is as yet an unlicensed treatment in Ireland, it is not available under the scheme. I am not in a position to indicate what the position of the Irish Medical Organisation would be as the matter has not been discussed with it.
I would add that in November 2002, the Institute of Public Administration launched a report, which I commissioned, into alternative medical practitioners. One of the recommendations of the report was the establishment of a working group to examine the whole area and advise my Department. This working group is in the process of being established.
