Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 22 October 2019
374. Deputy Gino Kenny asked the Minister for Health if the way in which funding for transport to and from hospitals is allocated and used will be examined and clarified; his views on the fact that wheelchair users have particular difficulties in accessing day services if funding for transport is limited such as in the case of a person (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43353/19]
View answerThe National Ambulance Service manages emergency and intermediate care services. The budget for the non-emergency patient transport was distributed to individual service providers (Hospitals and CHOs) some years ago, on the basis that they are the service provider and not the NAS.
Therefore responsibility for determining if non-emergency patient transport is to be provided, and the cost of that transport, rests with the local service provider, that is the hospital or CHO.
The Government is committed to providing services and supports for people with disabilities which will empower them to live independent lives, provide greater independence in accessing the services they choose, and enhance their ability to tailor the supports required to meet their needs and plan their lives. This commitment is outlined in the Programme for Partnership Government, which is guided by two principles: equality of opportunity and improving the quality of life for people with disabilities.
As the Deputy's question relates to service matters, I have arranged for the question to be referred to the Health Service Executive (HSE) for direct reply to the Deputy.
