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General Medical Services Scheme Administration

Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 8 February 2018

Thursday, 8 February 2018

Ceisteanna (91, 215)

Mick Wallace

Ceist:

91. Deputy Mick Wallace asked the Minister for Health the status of the general practitioner contractual review process, particularly in respect of the provision of routine phlebotomy services; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6378/18]

Amharc ar fhreagra

Willie Penrose

Ceist:

215. Deputy Willie Penrose asked the Minister for Health the position regarding medical card holders undertaking blood tests for the purposes of monitoring their health on a recurring basis; if a charge can be levied by the general practitioner carrying out such blood tests; if so, if it can be reclaimed through the PCRS for the purpose of reimbursement of outlays associated with such a charge; if such charges are consistent with the commitment given by the former Minister of State at his Department in Dáil Éireann on 3 December 2015 which indicated that the contract was clear and explicit in this regard; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6599/18]

Amharc ar fhreagra

Freagraí scríofa

I propose to take Questions Nos. 91 and 215 together.

There is no provision under the GMS GP contract for persons who hold a medical card or GP visit card to be charged for routine phlebotomy services provided by their GP which are required to either assist in the diagnosis of illness or the treatment of a condition. The HSE has advised GPs that where a blood test forms part of the investigation or necessary treatment of a patient’s symptoms or conditions, this should be free of charge for patients who hold a medical card or GP visit card. Notwithstanding this, I am aware that in recent times some GPs have begun to charge GMS patients for phlebotomy services in some circumstances.

This is a matter of concern for me as it has long been the position, under successive Governments, that no user charges should apply to GP services provided to GMS and GP visit card patients. If a patient who holds a medical card or GP visit card believes he or she has been incorrectly charged for routine phlebotomy services by his or her GP, then that patient may take the matter up with the HSE Local Health Office, who will deal with the matter in accordance with the HSE's Complaints Policy.

In relation to the talks on a new GP contract, it remains the position of my Department that routine phlebotomy services for the diagnosis of illness or the treatment of a condition are covered under the terms of the existing GP contract and should be free of charge for patients who hold a medical card or GP visit card.

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