Billy Kelleher (Cork North Central, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

147. To ask the Minister for Health the status of discussions as part of the negotiation of the new general practitioner contract to introduce opportunistic screening for atrial fibrillation in general practice in view of the fact that a health technology assessment by HIQA has shown that it is likely to be highly cost effective; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [51268/17]

Simon Harris (Wicklow, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

The development of primary care is central to the Government's objective to deliver a high-quality, integrated and cost effective health service. The Programme for Government commits to a decisive shift within the health service towards primary care in order to deliver better care close to home in communities across the country. The development of a new, modernised contract for the provision of general practitioner services will be a key element in facilitating this process. The aim is to develop a contract which has a population health focus, providing in particular for health promotion and disease prevention and for the structured ongoing care of chronic conditions.

Since 2015, negotiations have resulted in a number of service developments including the provision of free GP care to under 6's and over 70's, the introduction of a Diabetes Cycle of Care for adult GMS patients with Type 2 Diabetes and enhanced supports for rural GPs. The next phase of discussions with GP representatives on a new GP contract is under way. These discussions are wide ranging and ambitious in their scope. Proposals around further structured programmes for the management of chronic diseases are being considered in this context. I think it is important to acknowledge that, as with any negotiation-type process, and given the range and complexity of the issues being discussed, this process will take time. I look forward to constructive and positive engagements with a view to achieving a satisfactory outcome.