asked the Minister for Health whether it is permissible for a health authority to pay to private practitioners in psychiatry, who undertake sessional services for the health authority, the sessional rates for similar work performed in out-patient units of Dublin voluntary hospitals.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Psychiatric Practitioners' Rates.
3.
It is permissible for a health authority to employ psychiatrists on a sessional basis. The question of whether they can be paid at the sessional rate payable to medical specialists in general hospitals depends on their qualifications and experience.
May I take it that there will be no difficulty if a local authority wishes to pay the same rate as in a voluntary hospital? They may do so?
That depends on whether the doctor in question has the qualifications. It depends on the qualifications of the doctor. If the doctor has qualifications of consultant status clearly outlined he can then be paid.