Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 15 April 2014
599. Deputy Robert Dowds asked the Minister for Health if he will provide an overview of the UHI system; the way it will operate; his views on whether those who are currently health insurance holders will benefit from or be disadvantaged by its introduction; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17599/14]
View answerThe delivery of a single tier health system, supported by universal health insurance (UHI), where there is fair access to services based on need and not on ability to pay, is a central pillar of the Government’s major reform programme for the health system. The White Paper on Universal Health Insurance, which was published on 2nd April 2014 and is available on the Department’s website, www.health.gov.ie, provides detailed information on the UHI model for Ireland.
Broadly, under UHI, everyone will be insured for the same standard package of services. In addition, everyone will have a choice of health insurer. Health insurers will purchase health services on behalf of their customers from healthcare providers. There will be a system of financial protection whereby the State will pay for or partially subside the cost of UHI premiums for those who qualify. All individuals, whether paying for their UHI policy premium themselves, or having them fully or partially paid for by the State, will access the UHI package of services on the same basis, that is, on the basis of health need. Insurers and providers will not be allowed to sell faster access to services covered in the UHI standard package of care. Individuals will still be able to pay privately for services not included in the standard UHI package or purchase supplemental health insurance cover for these. However, these supplemental policies will not be subject to community rating.
