Mattie McGrath (Tipperary South, Independent)
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472. To ask the Minister for Health the supports available for adults with eating disorders who are undergoing eating distress therapies; the reasons such therapies are not covered by health insurance policies or under the tax credit relief system for medical expenses; the way a patient with a long-term eating disorder requiring such therapies is expected to pay for such therapies, which cost €70 per week; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24960/15]

Kathleen Lynch (Cork North Central, Labour)
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Nationally, services for adults presenting with eating disorders are provided by the General Adult Mental Health Services across the country. Children and Adolescents with eating disorders are treated by Child and Adolescent Mental Health Teams.

If an individual's physical or medical needs are more acute, inpatient admission is offered as required following the recommendation of a Consultant Psychiatrist.

Under the Minimum Benefit Regulations, private health insurers are required to provide a minimum level of cover for every insured person. Health insurance providers operate in a competitive market and are free to impose certain terms and conditions in their policies, providing they comply with Minimum Benefit regulations. For services that are covered by private health insurance, each private health insurance provider in the Irish market has the right to determine which health care provider they will cover for the benefit of their customers. It is a matter for each insurer to determine how much capacity in any particular area is purchased by it to deliver the services required by its members, including services available for persons with eating disorders.

The criteria in relation to tax relief for medical expenses is a matter for the Minister for Finance. I would also point out that it is open to any individual who is experiencing financial hardship to apply, in certain circumstances, for medical card assistance.