Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 22 July 2020
234. Deputy Seán Haughey asked the Minister for Health if he will intervene with the private hospitals to prevent them from charging for temperature tests and PPE gear for inpatient and outpatient attendances; if private health insurance providers can be requested to cover these levies; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17620/20]
View answerAs the Deputy will be aware, I do not have responsibility for private hospitals, including in relation to charges that they apply. Neither do I have a role, as Minister for Health, in the commercial decisions taken by any health insurer regarding the treatments or services provided in their products, provided that the regulatory obligations set out in Minimum Benefit regulations and other health insurance legislation are complied with.
I am not in a position to comment on what the actual cost may be in private hospitals. It is paramount that healthcare settings implement effective infection prevention and control measures in line with HPSC guidance to ensure the safety of staff and patients. Cost relating to Covid-19 should not be a barrier to accessing healthcare. I can confirm that the NTPF have advised my Department that no patient is liable for any charge from a private hospital for services arranged by the NTPF.
