Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 6 March 2013
223. Deputy Maureen O'Sullivan asked the Minister for Health if the universal health insurance will take into account that persons already pay the pay related social insurance and the universal social charge; if the UHI will result in a reduction in PRSI and USC rates overall or will it be an additional charge for persons on top of PRSI and the USC; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11946/13]
View answer258. Deputy Maureen O'Sullivan asked the Minister for Health if he has had discussions with the Department of Finance in relation to the proposed universal health insurance and if this charge will take into account that persons already pay the pay related social insurance and the universal social charge; if the UHI will result in a reduction in PRSI and USC rates overall or will there be an additional charge for persons on top of PRSI and the USC; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11944/13]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 223 and 258 together.
The Government is embarking on a major reform programme for the health system, the aim of which is to deliver a single-tier health service, supported by universal health insurance (UHI), where access is based on need, not on income. Under UHI, everyone will be insured and will have equal access to a standard package of primary and acute hospital services, including acute mental health services. A new Insurance Fund will subsidise or pay insurance premiums for those who qualify for a subsidy.
In relation to financing of UHI, my Department is currently advancing work on the White Paper on Universal Health Insurance. This White Paper will provide further detail on the UHI model for Ireland in addition to the estimated costs and financing mechanisms associated with the introduction of universal health insurance. The work involved is both complex and technical and demands a wide-range of specialised legal and financial expertise which my Department is currently in the process of engaging. It also requires strong engagement across a number of Government Departments. To facilitate this, my officials are currently establishing a UHI Design Team which will include representatives from the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform and elsewhere. The Team will oversee progress on the White Paper and ensure effective, timely collaboration across different Government areas as appropriate.
