Dáil Éireann díospóireacht -
Wednesday, 20 Sep 1995

Vol. 455 No. 8

Written Answers. - Medical Fees.

Tony Gregory

Ceist:

78 Mr. Gregory asked the Minister for Health the immediate steps, if any, he is taking to involve general practitioners in the treatment of IV drug abusers; and when he will decide on a fee for general practitioners undertaking this service. [12864/95]

Tony Gregory

Ceist:

81 Mr. Gregory asked the Minister for Health if he will begin negotiations with the Irish Medical Organisation group of general practitioners who support his Department's Protocol on prescribing methadone regarding a fee structure for this service in view of the urgency of the drugs crisis. [12888/95]

Minister for Health (Mr. Noonan,

Limerick East): It is proposed to take Questions Nos. 78 and 81 together.

It is recognised by all concerned that general practitioners have a major part to play in the treatment of intravenous drug users. As the Deputy will be aware, a Protocol on the prescribing of Methadone by general practitioners was published by my Department in March 1993. The Protocol provides a framework of support for general practitioners willing to become involved. At present over 400 patients are being prescribed methadone through their GPs. It is hoped to conclude discussions soon for a fee structure for general practitioners to extend the provision of this service.