Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 26 April 2022
1753. Deputy Niall Collins asked the Minister for Health if he considers that hospital charges (details supplied) are exorbitant and adding to the cost of health insurance; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20818/22]
View answerPatient charges are a key element of the overall funding envelope of the Irish health system and are taken into account when agreeing the Annual Estimates and the subsequent preparation of the HSE’s annual National Service Plan. These charges typically include:
- Out-patient charges;
- In-patient charges; and
- Long-term stay charges.
Certain cohorts of people may be exempt from some or all of these charges. In addition, patients who opt for private in-patient services in public hospitals are liable for a range of private in-patient charges. There are no exemptions from these charges.
The charges that apply in a private hospital are the subject of negotiation between private health insurers and the health service providers. Since health insurers can negotiate with private hospitals and with consultants, it is in the insurers’ interest to negotiate the best possible rate for procedures and services that they can for their customers, as this will control their claims costs.
