asked the Minister for Health if he will outline the situation for medical card-holders who are seeking transport facilities to and from hospitals in each health board area; and if he will ensure that a basic level of service will be provided for those who require same.
Written Answers. - Patients' Transport Facilities.
162.
All health boards provide emergency transport for all patients as required and the arrangements for non-emergency transport made by each health board free of charge for medical card holders, are outlined hereunder.
Eastern
This board provides limited non-emergency transport for patients attending outpatient facilities. This service is provided at the request of the patient's medical adviser and priority is based on the patient's needs. Limited use is made of commercial taxis for special category patients such as mental handicap and haemophiliac patients.
Midland
Transport to hospitals outside the region is provided for patients who have been referred by consultants attached to the board's hospitals.
Mid-Western
The board does not provide a non-emergency service as a matter of routine but deals with all hardship cases sympathetically and transport is provided where possible.
North-Eastern
Where a medical practitioner requests transport an ambulance is provided to bring the patient to and from hospital in all cases.
North-Western
Transport is provided for medical card holders attending hospital clinics outside the board's area, and to clinics within the board's area if patients require transport by stretcher.
South-Eastern
While the board does not provide transport as a matter of routine for attendance at local outpatient clinics it does provide transport where long journeys are involved and where their medical condition dictates.
Southern
This board does not provide a non-emergency transport service for patients except in very exceptional circumstances.
Western
A limited non-emergency transport service is provided which is determined by medical necessity and on the recommendation of a medical practitioner.
Transport by taxi contract on a yearly basis is also provided for patients, particularly those on haemodialysis treatments, where necessary. On occasions, persons who provide their own transport may receive assistance towards the cost of same and in such situations each application is considered on its own individual merits.
I accept that the position varies from board to board. I feel, however, that the health boards are in the best position to assess local needs.