asked the Minister for Health if he will make funds available to defray in some way the huge medical bills incurred in the case of an uninsured and illegal Irish emigrant (details supplied) in the United States, and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - US Medical Bills.
37.
I am aware of the circumstances surrounding this unfortunate case. The Department of Foreign Affairs are keeping in close contract with the person involved and are fully conversant with all the facts. There is a substantial outstanding account for medical expenses and unfortunately further medical expenses may arise.
The problem does not arise solely from the fact that this person is illegally in the United States and I understand that there is a prospect that the expenses involved may be covered under the victims of crime legislation in the United States. An application for such assistance has been made.
I should point out that there is no legal basis for providing health care or funding for same for Irish persons who live outside the State and we do not have any reciprocal arrangements with the United States in regard to the provision of health care.
Finally I would like to emphasise that it is extremely important to persons travelling abroad to secure insurance to cover themselves against the medical cost of injury or illness.