Vol. 488 No. 7
215 Mr. Haughey asked the Minister for Health and Children if he recognises the important role played by private hospitals on the northside of Dublin in easing the pressure on the public system; his views on whether the VHI should support private hospitals; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6974/98]
I have no function in relation to the operations of acute private hospitals. However, as recognised in the health strategy document Shaping a Healthier Future, there is a considerable degree of interdependence between the public and private sectors in the provision of hospital services for the population.
The legislation governing the activities of the Voluntary Health Insurance Board requires it to provide schemes of voluntary health insurance on a not-for-profit basis. The board operates a number of schemes which enable subscribers to have access to private treatment in either public hospitals or private hospitals. The number and location of public or private hospitals which may be appropriate for inclusion under these schemes is a matter for the board.
