Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 18 September 2024
670. Deputy Mark Ward asked the Minister for Health if general practitioners and family doctors are entitled to refuse to complete a HMD-Form 1 disability and or medical information form for their patients who are applying for medical priority with their local authority; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36172/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraGPs are private practitioners, most of whom hold contracts with the HSE for the provision of health services to patients on its behalf and without charge.
The HMD-Form 1 is required for the applying for Social Housing Support due to a disability or on medical grounds. Please note that this form can be completed by a range of medical professions, including doctors and nurses, as well as occupational therapists and social workers.
Completion of the HMD-Form 1 is not comprehended under the GMS contract for the provision of GP services to medical card and GP visit card holders or under other contracts held between GPs and the HSE. Services provided by GPs outside the terms of the GMS contract (or other HSE contracts held by the GP) are a matter of private contract between the GP and their patient.
Issues regarding the completion of the HMD-Form 1 or in regard to applying for Social Housing Support are a matter for the local authority concerned.
