asked the Minister for Health if he will issue for general distribution a booklet outlining the range of free medical services available to (a) medical card holders, (b) insured workers and (c) farmers who are paying the annual contributions of £7; and if he will give the House a summary of the position pending the issue of the booklet.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Free Medical Services.
19.
The Department's printed booklet Summary of the Health Services has been outdated arising from recent changes in the health services. It is at present being revised for issue later in the year when the choice of doctor scheme has been introduced and extended.
In the meantime an up-to-date stencilled document which summarises the health services available to the various categories of persons and which includes the information mentioned by the Deputy, is issued from my Department to all persons and organisations requesting it or making inquiries about the services. This stencilled document has been circulated widely and was included in the notes recently circulated to Deputies in connection with the Estimate for Health.
How soon may we expect the booklet to which the Minister refers?
I cannot say but as early as I can possibly get it out.
This summer?
I think so, yes.
Does this stencilled information cover the complete health services or does it just deal with the £7 contribution?
It will deal with all the services.