Billy Kelleher
Ceist:76. Deputy Billy Kelleher asked the Minister for Health the status of the negotiation of a new contract for general practitioners; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3925/16]
Amharc ar fhreagraTuesday, 2 February 2016
Ceisteanna (76)
Freagraí scríofa
Following the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding by the Health Service Executive, the Department of Health and the Irish Medical Organisation in February 2015, the parties commenced talks on a new GP contract. A priority of these discussions is the inclusion of chronic disease management for patients. As a first step in this process, agreement was reached on the introduction of a Diabetes Cycle of Care for adult patients with Type 2 Diabetes who hold a medical card or GP visit card. This service commenced on 1st October 2015.
Rural practice is top of the agenda as part of the ongoing discussions between the parties. Options, including enhanced rural practice payments, are being considered by all parties to support and sustain rural practices. The parties are planning to hold further meetings.