Pat Deering (Carlow-Kilkenny, Fine Gael)
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104. To ask the Minister for Social Protection if all medical referee doctors are trained to examine fibromyalgia sufferers; and if they are aware of the 18 tender points and the severe pain touching these can bring on for the patient. [20644/14]

Joan Burton (Dublin West, Labour)
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Medical Assessors are fully qualified and experienced medical practitioners who provide an opinion for the guidance of the Department's Deciding Officers. Their medical assessments conform to the ethical conduct and behaviour guidelines of the Medical Council. Medical Assessors are required to be medical practitioners who are on the general register of medical practitioners while holding an appointment.

It is a necessary requirement that, on appointment, they have at least six years satisfactory experience in the practice of medicine since registration. Many of the Medical Assessors have specialist post-graduate qualifications including Occupational Medicine, Psychiatry, Surgery and General Medicine. All Medical Assessors have received special training in Human Disability Evaluation. Evaluations are conducted in accordance with evidence-based protocols which include conditions such as fibromyalgia, its signs and symptoms. The Medical Assessors have an on-going commitment to continuing medical education to ensure that standards are maintained and enhanced.