asked the Minister for Health if insured workers and their dependants are now entitled to in-patient and out-patient treatment in hospitals without having to pay for such treatment.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Hospital Treatment.
5.
I wish to confirm that persons insured under the Social Welfare Acts and their dependants are now entitled to in-patient and out-patient treatment in hospital free of charge.
Would the Minister say whether this includes pathology and X-ray?
It includes X-ray and pathology, yes.
Is the Minister aware that his Department have notified the regional health boards that it does not include them, and charges are still being made for both those services?
I will have investigations made about this matter.
There is the question of unpaid debts due to health boards in respect of in-patient hospital services prior to October last. Would there be any possibility of these being waived?
I cannot say. I am not aware of that.