Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 8 March 2017
79. Deputy Mick Wallace asked the Minister for Health the steps he is taking to enforce certain provisions of the Health Act 1970, specifically, to ensure that persons covered by the general medical services scheme are not being incorrectly charged for routine phlebotomy services and other generalised medical services provided by their general practitioner; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11904/17]
View answerThere is no provision under the GP GMS contract for persons who hold a medical card or GP visit card to 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. The HSE has advised GPs that where a blood test forms part of the investigation or necessary treatment of a patient's symptoms or conditions, this should be free of charge for patients who hold a medical card or GP visit card. Notwithstanding this, I understand that in recent times, some GPs are charging GMS patients for these services.
If a patient who holds a medical card or GP visit card believes he or she has been incorrectly charged for routine phlebotomy services by his or her GP, then that patient may make a complaint to the HSE Local Health Office, who will deal with the matter in accordance with the HSE's Complaints Policy.
In order to achieve clarity on this issue, I have asked that any difference of perspective in relation to the provision of phlebotomy services be addressed in the GP contractual review. I am pleased that initial engagement with GP representative bodies to progress this process has commenced and I look forward to constructive and positive further engagements.
