Dáil Éireann - Volume 537 - 31 May, 2001

Written Answers. - Medical Cards.

Mr. N. Ahern Mr. N. Ahern

108. Mr. N. Ahern asked the Minister for Health and Children the way in which some Dublin hospitals are now charging £50 to £80 to public patients and to medical card holders for certain tests such as bone density tests and ultrasound tests; the way in which this is happening where there is no suggestion of seeing the consultant privately; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16448/01]

Mr. Martin Mr. Martin

988

[988] Minister for Health and Children (Mr. Martin): As I stated recently in response to a similar question, the position is that investigative tests required by medical card patients as part of a prescribed protocol for ongoing treatment are covered by the medical card.

Given that the question relates to services provided by hospitals in the Dublin area to medical card holders and others, I have referred this particular case to the Eastern Regional Health Authority and asked that they have the matter investigated and that they revert directly to the Deputy.

Dáil Éireann 537 Written Answers. Medical Cards.

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