Brian Cowen
Ceist:96 Mr. Cowen asked the Minister for Health when the study into risk equalisation in health insurance will be completed; the names of the members of the working group; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5265/97]
Written Answers - Risk Equalisation System.
Limerick East): On 17 January 1997, I announced my decision to establish an independent review group to report, and make recommendations to me on the risk equalisation system for private health insurance.
As an initial step in this process, my Department sought the views of the Voluntary Health Insurance Board and BUPA Ireland regarding draft terms of reference and the composition of the review group.
My Department recently received the reply of one insurer and when the views of both are available, and have been considered, it will proceed to finalise the terms of reference and to establish the group as quickly as possible.
While the duration of the exercise will be primarily a matter for the group, I hope that its report and recommendations will be available by summer 1997.