Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 23 April 2024
398. Deputy Jim O'Callaghan asked the Minister for Social Protection if a change to the eye examination fee for contractors is now under consideration after Department officials met with stakeholders in March to discuss a change to the (optical) treatment benefit scheme; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [17465/24]
View answerThe Treatment Benefit Scheme provides dental, optical and aural services to insured workers, the self-employed, retired people and their dependent spouse/partner who have the required number of social insurance (PRSI) contributions.
The Department has been in contact with Optometry Ireland as the representative body for optical practitioners in Ireland and have discussed a provisional date for a meeting to review the scheme.
The Department will meet with Optometry Ireland in the near future and engagement with other stakeholders will also form part of the process. The examination fee may be considered as part of the review.
I hope this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.
