Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 1 February 2012
170 Deputy Pearse Doherty asked the Minister for Health the estimated cost which would be entailed by providing free health care for infants up to one year of age; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5689/12]
Amharc ar fhreagraAs all persons ordinarily resident in the State may avail of public hospital services, I take it that the Deputy's question relates to the cost of providing free General Practitioner (GP) care to children up to one year of age. In the time available, it is difficult to provide an accurate estimate of the cost of providing a free GP service to all children under one year of age. While the current GMS capitation rate payable to GPs in respect of children under 5 years is approximately €80, GPs are also entitled to a range of other payments. These include fees for out of hours consultations which could be a significant factor in the care of young children. In addition, GPs receive subsidies towards the cost of employing practice nurses, secretaries and practice managers, which vary depending on the number of patients on their panels. Allowing for these additional fees and allowances, the overall cost per child could be up to €150 per annum. Assuming that cost per child and an annual birth rate of between 70,000 and 75,000, the total cost of providing free GP care to all children under one year is provisionally estimated at between €10.5m and €11.5m. I would emphasise, however, that the Deputy's proposal has not been the subject of detailed analysis and this estimate should be treated with a high degree of caution.
171 Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Minister for Health the position regarding an assessment in respect of a person (details supplied). [5705/12]
Amharc ar fhreagraAs this is a service matter the question has been referred to the HSE for direct reply.
