Michael D Higgins (Galway West, Labour)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 47: To ask the Minister for Health and Children if she will ensure that former patients of a doctor (details supplied) who has been struck off the medical register can attend accredited counsellors of their choosing rather than those chosen by the Health Service Executive; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [6540/09]

Mary Harney (Dublin Mid West, Progressive Democrats)
Link to this: Individually | In context

A professional counselling support service has been put in place by the Health Service Executive (HSE) for former patients of the person concerned following the findings of the recent Medical Council Inquiry. The service is provided free of charge by the National Counselling Service and will continue to be made available as required to the former patients concerned. The need for additional support will also be monitored.

The National Counselling Service was established in 2000 and employs 70 counsellors/therapists throughout Ireland. It is a professional, accredited and totally confidential counselling and psychotherapy service. Counselling is provided in a confidential, supportive and non-judgmental setting and is available in 60 locations nationwide. It is open to former patients of the person concerned to contact their relevant Director of Counselling to discuss issues relating to choice of counsellor, choice of appointment and location or access to any other branch of the National Counselling Service. Clearly, individuals may choose to make alternative arrangements for counselling but this is a private matter between the individual and the provider concerned.

The HSE has assigned co-ordinating responsibility for these matters to the Area Manager for Consumer Affairs in the North East who will liaise as required with former patients and support groups.