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Proposed changes to Income support system to improve mechanisms for supporting costs of GP visits

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WRITTEN QUESTION TO THE MINISTER FOR SOCIAL SECURITY BY DEPUTY G.P. SOUTHERN OF ST. HELIER

ANSWER TO BE TABLED ON TUESDAY 17th APRIL 2012

Question

Will the Minister inform members what changes, if any, he proposes to improve the mechanisms for supporting the costs of GP visits and other medical costs under the Income Support system?

Answer

I can confirm that the Income Support system does already include mechanisms for supporting the costs of GP visits and other medical costs for low income households.

As Members are aware, the Minister for Health and Social Services is currently undertaking a major review of health and social care provision. My officers are working very closely with HSSD officers on this project which is likely to involve major changes in the way in which primary health care is provided in the community by GPs and other health professionals and how this care is funded.

It is likely that legislative changes to Income Support will be needed in the next few years to support the outcomes of the Health review as it affects the provision and funding of primary care services.

Whilst the Health review is in progress, my officers will continue to review and, as necessary, improve the existing support mechanisms within Income Support, including the use of Household Medical Accounts.