Vol. 566 No. 1
74 Mr. P. Breen asked the Minister for Health and Children the status on work to prepare the national client eligibility index; when the system is likely to be operational; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11893/03]
The national client eligibility index being implemented by the GMS Payments Board aims to provide a central database of all persons eligible for health services, without duplication. The implementation of the index was piloted in the North-Eastern Health Board during 2002. The lessons learned from the pilot were that the implementation of the index will have a significant impact on existing business processes in health boards. Based on the experience of the pilot project, the GMS Payments Board and health boards have conducted a review of the scope of the changes necessary. Arrangements are currently being put in place to amend the business processes in each health board to bring them into line with the requirements of the national client eligibility index. The main project is expected to be recommenced shortly and the GMS Payments Board plans to commence roll out of the project to health boards during 2003. It has been agreed that the unique client identifier will be the PPSN. If this is not available an alternative internal number will be used for a limited period during which the registering board will obtain the PPSN.
The national client eligibility index is being implemented from the perspective of better customer service and efficiency. When fully in place, it is expected to facilitate the provision of speedier service to health service customers, generate significant savings in health expenditure and will be available as a valuable tool for health service planners at all levels.
