Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 8 September 2022
1612. Deputy Michael Healy-Rae asked the Minister for Health if he will consider a proposal for helping with accident and emergency departments (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43599/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraI wish to thank the Deputy for his proposal. However I believe it is best to proceed with the provision of A&E care and community care as envisaged in Sláintecare. Our focus is on providing the best possible health and social care service for all in acute settings and expanding our services within the community.
Under the Slaintecare Contract, consultants will only be entitled to treat patients as public patients within the public health care system and will receive a set salary in respect of this work. The Contract will also support he delivery of care in the community. A&E consultants are currently employed as Type A (public only) consultants and provide required care irrespective of whether the patient is public or private.
The Government is committed to introducing the Sláintecare Contract as provided for in the Programme for Government. My Department is currently engaged in negotiations on the Contract with the representative bodies.
