General Medical Services Scheme

Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 13 July 2016

Wednesday, 13 July 2016

Questions (183)

Kathleen Funchion

Question:

183. Deputy Kathleen Funchion asked the Minister for Health the action the Health Service Executive took in respect of a centre (details supplied) where patients covered by the medical card scheme are still being charged €10 for routine blood tests, given that the Minister of State at his Department previously stated that it was not acceptable for such patients and patients covered under the general practitioner-visit card scheme to be charged for procedures associated with routine diagnosis and treatment. [21438/16]

Written answers

Minister for Health

Persons covered by the General Medical Services (GMS) Scheme should not be charged for routine phlebotomy services provided by their GP, or the Practice Nurse on behalf of the GP, which are required to either assist in the diagnosis of illness or the treatment of a condition.

In relation to the specific case mentioned, as this is a service matter, I have asked the HSE to respond directly to the Deputy on this issue. If you have not received a reply from the HSE within 15 working days, please contact my private office and they will follow up the matter with them.