asked the Minister for Health if his attention has been drawn to the fact that some voluntary hospitals are converting public beds into private beds; if his attention has been further drawn to the funds they are using for such purposes; and his views on this development.
Written Answers. - Hospital Beds.
176.
The number of private and semi-private beds qualifying for Voluntary Health Insurance cover in the public hospital sector is relatively small at approximately 20 per cent. This number is tightly controlled by the Minister for Health and the VHI Board to cater as closely as possible for the known demand for such facilities. All revenue from private accommodation goes to maintain overall service levels in the hospitals.