Colm Burke (Cork North Central, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

In fairness, following the changes that have occurred in the past three or four years, many people who were going to hospital are now going to their GP, which is a major improvement. In addition, because of the extension of the GP card criteria, many more people are able to attend their GP without having to pay a charge.

The Minister for Health is committed to the delivery of treatments to patients with hereditary haemochromatosis in a fair and equitable manner. The Minister understands there may be some disappointment with the current position regarding screening for hereditary haemochromatosis. However, it is important to emphasise that any recommendations the committee makes are based on international processes and best practice, along with scientific evidence. Ireland has always evaluated the case for commencing a national screening programme against internationally accepted criteria. The policy measures introduced in recent years, such as the expansion of the GMS contract and the abolition of inpatient charges, are enabling more patients to receive their treatment free of charge and with greater flexibility.

These measures are in line with the Government's overall vision for healthcare in Ireland as set out in the programme for government. More precisely, they aim to facilitate universal healthcare through a public health service that enables people to access high-quality, affordable care when they need it.