A pilot patient assistance programme, aimed at helping those who experience long waits for hospital admission for surgical procedures, was announced yesterday by Vhi Healthcare, writes Róisín Ingle.
The pilot scheme will be available to all Plans A-E and Option Plan members. The service advises members of typical waiting times for surgical treatments and assists members with information on the possible alternatives that may be available to meet their treatment needs.
Those eligible for the service, for which normal underwriting rules apply, will also be informed of their Vhi cover entitlements, so that they are aware of the benefits available for whichever treatment option they choose.
Vhi Healthcare medical director Dr Bernadette Carr said the service was designed in response to feedback from the organisation's 1.4 million members. The Patient Assistance Service can be contacted on CallSave 1850 44 44 44