Ireland Announces Free Medical Care for All Asylum Seekers
Dublin: Health Minister Stephen Donnelly announced in the Dáil that the Irish government is poised to extend comprehensive healthcare services to all refugees arriving in Ireland. Jointly implemented by the Department of Health and the Health Service Executive (HSE), refugees will be provided with a free treatment card, encompassing essential medical care.
This government programme, aimed at catering to the needs of tens of thousands of refugees, underscores Ireland’s commitment to serving as a model for refugee and migrant health. Minister Donnelly emphasised that Ireland will contribute significantly to global efforts in this regard, with medical cards being a crucial component of the initiative.
To fund this endeavour, the government has allocated €50 million for the current year. Specifically addressing the influx of refugees from Ukraine and various African provinces, the government is extending facilities to accommodate their needs. Notably, the majority of Ukrainian refugees comprise women and children, while those from African provinces are predominantly adults and youth. Specialised GP clinics will cater to the unique healthcare requirements of these groups, ensuring comprehensive coverage at no cost.
Moreover, with a growing demand for various health services, including home care, GP community services, and hospital-based care, the government plans to introduce a new community-based healthcare service. This expansion of healthcare services on a significant scale is part of the government’s broader agenda to bolster healthcare infrastructure across the country.
Minister Donnelly outlined plans to add over 1,100 new hospital beds and recruit 26,000 healthcare professionals to meet the increasing demand. This proactive approach underscores Ireland’s commitment to providing quality healthcare services to all residents, including refugees, reaffirming its role as a compassionate and inclusive society.
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