Michael Lowry (Tipperary North, Independent)
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263. To ask the Minister for Health the steps being taken to collect outstanding moneys owed to the Health Service Executive by health insurers; the total sum outstanding; the progress made to date in ensuring doctors complete paper work within a set period of time; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20822/13]

James Reilly (Dublin North, Fine Gael)
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I am informed by the Health Service Executive that it is continuing a drive to reduce the time taken to submit claims to private health insurance companies. The number of days taken for consultants to complete forms has reduced from an average of 62 days in 2010 to an average of 44 days in 2012 representing an improvement of 29%. The HSE target is 14 working days for consultant sign-off.

Significant progress has been made in the last three years. However I recognise that there is a significant challenge in improving the speed of payments from insurers and my Department continues to engage with the HSE and private health insurance companies on this issue. I understand that the HSE has provided a comprehensive response directly to the Deputy with regard to the issues raised in his question.