asked the Minister for Health if he is aware that full maintenance costs are being demanded in a number of Dublin hospitals from patients whose salaries are under £800 but are known to have voluntary health insurance; and what action he proposes to take in the matter.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Hospital Maintenance Costs.
26.
I am not so aware. I take a very serious view of the implications contained in the Deputy's question and if he will send me particulars of specific cases I shall have immediate enquiries made.
27.
asked the Minister for Health if he is aware of the steep rise in hospital costings and rates of maintenance for patients; and if he contemplates taking any steps to reduce the growing expense which has to be met by patients.
I am aware that hospital costs have risen in recent years, the increases being mainly under the headings of salaries, wages, drugs and medicines.
Under the provisions of the Health Acts over 85 per cent of the population are estimated to be eligible for services in public hospital accommodation free of charge or at moderate charges which are fixed by Health Authorities having regard to individual financial circumstances, but not exceeding 10/- a day in any case. The position in relation to charges for services has remained unchanged since 1957 despite the increase in hospital costs.
Charges for services provided in local authority hospitals for persons ineligible for hospital services under the Health Acts are adjusted from time to time and are related generally to the rates at which health authorities pay for patients sent by them for treatment in voluntary hospitals. The charges made by voluntary or proprietary hospitals in respect of services provided in private or semi-private accommodation are fixed by the authorities of those hospitals.
I shall bear in mind, in reviewing the health services, the problems of persons who are not covered by the provisions of the Health Acts relating to hospital services.