Denis Naughten (Roscommon-South Leitrim, Independent)
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172. To ask the Minister for Health if he will review and reverse cuts, including those to the rural practice allowance, and to distance bands, and cuts under the Financial Emergency Measures in the Public Interest Act 2009, which have a direct impact on the viability of rural general practitioners; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38558/15]

Kathleen Lynch (Cork North Central, Labour)
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A review will take place shortly in respect of the fee adjustments introduced under the Financial Emergency Measures in the Public Interest Act 2009 (FEMPI) for contracted professionals in the health sector, including GPs. This follows on from engagement earlier this year between the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform and public sector unions on an orderly unwinding of the FEMPI legislation.

Separately, the HSE, the Department of Health and the IMO are currently engaged in a review of the GMS and other publicly funded health sector contracts involving GPs. This review is taking place within the context of the Framework Agreement which was signed by the above named parties in June 2014. Among the many topics comprehended by this review process is the issue of supports for General Practice in rural areas.