Anger at treatment ban on doctors aged 70-plus

A ban on GPs aged 70 and over treating public patients is nothing but ageism, the Seanad heard today.

Senator Mary White cited the case of Dublin GP, Dr Patricia Comer who will not be allowed to treat her 500 medical card patients when she turns 70 in August.

However no similar restriction applies to Dr Comer’s private patients.

“How will the Minister for Health & Children rectify this appalling situation?” asked Fianna Fáil’s Senator White in the Seanad.

“There should be no age barriers to doctors treating patients. Dr Comer can continue treating her private patients, a stark contrast with the fact that she cannot treat public patients. This is nothing but ageism.”

The Senator said Dr Comer’s medical card patients are older people who have built up good relationships with her over the years.

“She has treated their children and grandchildren. Older people are distressed at the prospect of changing doctors, having been served by Dr Comer over the past 40 years,” she added.

Last week, Senator White launched A New Approach to Ageing and Ageism which contained 28 recommendations including a stipulation that the mandatory retirement at 65 years of age should be abolished.

In reply, Seanad leader, Senator Mary O’Rourke noted the anomalous situation concerning Dr Comer.

On the suggestion of Cathaoirleach Senator Rory Kiely, Senator O’Rourke agreed that the matter would make a suitable debate.