Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 18 January 2023
1329. Deputy Fergus O'Dowd asked the Minister for Health the measures that are being taken to support Ukrainians currently in State-provided accommodation to get access to appropriate GP care (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [63843/22]
View answerIt is a priority for the Department and the HSE to ensure that Ukrainian refugees are provided with appropriate health and social care services. Ukrainian refugees will be able to access the equivalent health services as people who are already ordinarily living here, and are entitled to apply for a medical card.
The HSE has arranged a range of bespoke GP services for those accommodated in hotels and other settings. The exact model for each site varies, however all have access to GP Out-of-Hours services, while those staying in private accommodation can register with local GPs. Where a medical card applicant is availing of local GP services but does not gave a preferred GP, a GP can be assigned by the HSE to them and their family.
The importance of assisting health professionals from Ukraine to gain registration here is fully appreciated. However, it is important that this is done in a safe manner which recognises the differences in training and language between our systems of medical education and practise. Medical English language training is particularly required to assist many of the applicants to meet the standards necessary for registration.
In this regard, I recently approved a funding package for medical English language training to assist Ukrainian doctors and dentists in gaining registration here. The HSE are currently finalising the application and operational details. The medical language training as well as the creation of suitable roles in the health service will greatly assist those in meeting the standards for registration and it is expected that significant progress will be made this year.
