asked the Minister for Health if he is aware that doctors in rural dispensary districts can charge their paying patients as they wish without fear of losing their custom, as there is no opposition; and that the position is aggravated by reductions in the number of dispensary doctors; and what action he proposes to take to remedy the matter.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Charges by Dispensary Doctors.
9.
Mr. Donnellan
I have no responsibility for the fees charged by private practitioners or district medical officers acting in their capacity as private practitioners and, accordingly, I am not in a position to comment on the reference in the question to the fees charged by doctors to private patients.
I may add, however, that before agreeing to a proposal by a health authority involving a reduction in the number of district medical officers, I examine the matter carefully to ensure that under the proposed revised arrangements satisfactory medical services will be available in the area, particularly for persons eligible for General Medical Services under the Health Acts, the people in respect of whom I have a statutory responsibility.
Mr. Donnellan
I hope the Minister has the responsibility — not the local health authority.