Hospital Charges

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 22 January 2013

Tuesday, 22 January 2013

Questions (596)

Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin

Question:

596. Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Health the way he will achieve the charging of all private patients in public hospitals; if he will outline the steps and legislation needed to achieve this; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [2441/13]

Written answers

Minister for Health

As part of Budget 2013, it has been indicated that legislative proposals will be brought to Government that will provide for charges to be collected from private in-patients who are not occupying a private designated bed. This charge will be phased in over a number of years to mitigate the impact on the private health insurance market. It is envisaged that new charges will be implemented in mid-2013 and will yield additional €60m in 2013. The details of the legislative changes are being worked on by my Department at present. In the meantime, the maintenance charges for private in-patients in public hospitals remain unchanged.