Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 25 March 2014
986. Deputy Marcella Corcoran Kennedy asked the Minister for Health if he will ensure persons on the long term-illness scheme, persons with life threatening illnesses, including diabetes, and persons using nebulisers, pumps and so on will continue to be covered under the universal health insurance; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12889/14]
View answerThe White Paper on Universal Health Insurance, currently at an advanced stage of drafting, provides detailed information on the UHI model for Ireland, the process for determining the future basket of health services, including the services that will covered under UHI, and the funding of UHI. Following a recent initial discussion at Cabinet on the White Paper, the issue will return to Cabinet in the near future with a view to publication very quickly thereafter. This will be followed by consultation on the general approach set out in the White Paper and a separate consultation on the future health basket.
As a matter of general policy, it is the government's intention that existing entitlements will continue to be delivered to individuals once UHI is introduced. The composition of the future health basket will be considered by an expert Commission, and as part of that task the Commission will be asked to consider how such entitlements can be delivered in a manner that is as fair and cost effective as possible.
It is my intention to have all the necessary groundwork for UHI in place in early 2016 and to have the new system implemented by 2019.
