Proposals for a mandatory system of licensing health service providers by year end – Buttimer

Cork South Central Fine Gael TD Jerry Buttimer has been informed that proposals for a mandatory system of licensing health service providers should be finalised by year end.   The information was provided to Deputy Buttimer by Minister for Health, Dr James Reilly, TD, in reply to a parliamentary question.

“The Minister for Health confirmed to me that outline proposals for a new mandatory system of licensing public and private health service providers will be finalised by the end of this year.   A new mandatory licensing system will be of particular benefit in regulating the cosmetic surgery industry.

“Under the current system of regulation healthcare professionals are required to register with their relevant professional regulatory body.   Given the changing environment in which healthcare is delivered it is necessary to regulate, through a mandatory licensing system, all service providers.   Such a system will be designed to improve patient safety by ensuring that core standards are applied in a consistent and systematic way.

“Over the last two years the debacle of the PIP implants has highlighted the need for licensing and regulation when it comes to cosmetic surgery.   Most service providers have acted in the interests of their patients however there have been instances where this is not the case.   It is imperative that service providers adhere to their responsibilities towards patients.   A comprehensive regulatory system for the cosmetic surgery industry will ensure that the health of patients is the highest priority, not private profits.”