Expert group recommends €40 cap on GP fees

An independent group of experts is recommending reform of the GP system that would see people paying a maximum of €40 per visit.

The primary care card system would see people paying a small capitation fee to their GP along with fee per visit depending on the patient's needs.

The group is made up of economists and health care professionals and was asked by the Health Minister Mary Harney to look at how resources are allocated and financed.

Chair of the group Professor Frances Ruane said the system should accommodate a tiered approach to healthcare.