European Health Insurance Card
135. Mr. Gormley asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if a person (details supplied) who has a European health insurance card can be given kidney dialysis treatment here if they come home here for a week; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [25191/06]
Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children (Ms Harney): Regulation (EC) 1408/71 provides for the coordination of social security systems, including healthcare, among EU member states. Under the Regulation, those who are insured with or covered by the healthcare system of one member state but who are residing or staying in another member state receive healthcare in the state of residence or stay on behalf of the member state with which they are insured or covered. The European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) provides evidence of this entitlement.
Persons staying in Ireland and in possession of a valid EHIC may receive healthcare, through the public healthcare system that becomes necessary during their stay taking into account the nature of the care and the expected length of stay.
It is recognised that people requiring certain specialised treatments, in particular oxygen therapy or dialysis, are entitled to such care under these arrangements while on a temporary stay abroad, on the basis that prior agreements are entered into in regard to the availability of appropriate services. This arrangement is accepted by all member states, given that such specialised treatments may not be available in all locations. The aim is to ensure that freedom of movement is not adversely affected for a person requiring such treatments.
In this case, the person concerned should contact the Health Services Executive (HSE), North Eastern Area, Kells, Co. Meath - Tel: 00 353 (0)46 9240341 or e-mail info@HSE.ie - to make appropriate arrangements for dialysis care during her stay in Ireland.