Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 23 March 2004
363 Mr. J. Higgins asked the Minister for Health and Children the reason persons with pulmonary hypertension in need of oxygen treatment equipment supplied by a company (details supplied) at a cost of €124.84 per month and portable oxygen kits at €50 per month have to wait six to eight weeks before this money, paid up front to the company, can be reimbursed by the local health board; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8521/04]
View answer364 Mr. J. Higgins asked the Minister for Health and Children if he will take steps to speed up the process by which persons with pulmonary hypertension in need of oxygen treatment equipment at a cost of €124.84 per month and portable oxygen kits at €50 per month are reimbursed by the local health boards following an up front payment to the company supplying this equipment; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8522/04]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 363 and 364 together.
The provision of oxygen and oxygen equipment to non-medical card patients is a matter for the individual health board. If the Deputy is aware of people experiencing difficulties he should contact the relevant health board with details of the claim.
