Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 23 November 2023
339. Deputy John McGuinness asked the Minister for Health if he is aware of the issues concerning members of the Goulding voluntary medical scheme; and if so, if his Department can assist in any way. [51723/23]
Amharc ar fhreagraAs per section 14 of the Health Insurance Act 1994, health insurers must be registered on the Register of Health Benefits Undertakings, which is maintained by the Health Insurance Authority. This enables undertakings to carry on the business of health insurance in Ireland. Registration is for a period of 12 months.
The Register contains both open and restricted membership undertakings. Goulding Voluntary Medical Scheme is a restricted membership undertaking and its current registration is valid until July 2024. Registered restricted undertakings provide insurance to individuals who are members of a particular group, for example, employees of a specific organisation.
Registered restricted undertakings are subject to regulatory oversight by the Health Insurance Authority in relation to the Health Insurance Acts. Neither my Department nor the Health Insurance Authority is responsible for the regulation of this body beyond what is provided for in this legislation.
The Health Insurance Authority is available to deal with any queries on the Goulding Voluntary Medical Scheme relating to its regulation under health insurance legislation.
