The General Medical Services (Payments) Board have informed me that there is no delay in issuing payments to general practitioners.
Payments are made in accordance with the provisions and procedures of the general practitioners contract with the health boards. The contract states that "payment of fees shall be made monthly and allowances shall be paid at least quarterly".
Accordingly, the capitation fees are paid on the 15 day of each month. Rural practice allowances are paid quarterly on the 15 day of the month following the end of the quarter. Dispensing fees are issued as soon as the necessary information is received by the General Medical Services Payments Board from the health boards. Grant aid for the employment of secretaries and practice nurses is paid no later than the 15 day of the month following the month of receipt of the claim from the general practitioner.
The operation of the general practitioners contract, including the arrangements for the making of payments, is regularly discussed by representatives of the Irish Medical Organisation, the health boards, the General Medical Services Payments Board and the Department of Health.
