Jim Higgins
Ceist:50 Mr. J. Higgins asked the Minister for Health whether he will introduce a bill of rights for those in need of medical attention; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - Bill of Rights.
The right to treatment services for those needing medical attention is already established under the Health Acts and includes statutory entitlements to primary and secondary health care according to category eligibility.
I believe that the health services must also have regard to the quality of care to the patient as consumer. Therefore the plans to improve the health services which I announced last February included measures to ensure that patients received the quality of care they are entitled to expect. These measures, which are now being put in place, include an appeals system for applicants for medical cards and an improved appointments system for hospital out-patients clinics as well as improved information for patients. These measures are underpinned by the commitment of all health care workers to providing a high standard of care to patients.
There are no plans to introduce a bill of rights given the measures outlined above. However, I will continue to keep this aspect of the service under review in considering the relevant recommendations of the Commission on Health Funding.