asked the Minister for Health the procedures with regard to doctors charging for medical certificates, whether such charges are appropriate; and, if so, the rules and regulations which govern this practice.
Written Answers. - Medical Certificate Charges.
158.
Where a medical certificate is required under the Social Welfare Acts, the certifying doctor may not accept money or other consideration in connection with the issue of a medical certificate and may not make it a condition of the issue of a certificate that the insured person should receive from him and pay for, any medical advice, treatment or medicine. These prohibitions apply to all cases where insured persons seek a medical certificate under the Social Welfare Acts and therefore comprehend cases where the insured person does not have a medical card.
In cases where an insured person who does not have a medical card seeks a medical certificate for purposes unconnected with the Social Welfare Acts, the question of fees payable by the patient is a matter for determination between doctor and patient as is normal in the case of private practice. The Minister for Health has no function in the matter.
Medical card holders are not liable to charges for services provided under the terms of the general medical services ("choice of doctor") scheme.