HSE action against Laya over private patient charges admitted to commercial court list

An action by the HSE against Laya Healthcare over the payment of charges for the treatment of private patients in public hospitals has been admitted to the fast track Commercial Court list.

The dispute arises out of the interpretation by the HSE of certain sections of the 1970 Health Act that once a private patient who is being treated in a public hospital opts to receive private care then the patient or insurer becomes liable for the payment of charges incurred for the time they spend in the public hospital.