Written answer
Health Services
913. Deputy Duncan Smith asked the Minister for Health to provide details of the review of the maternity and infant care scheme that is currently underway within her Department; to confirm the aspects of the scheme that are being considered specifically; to provide a timeline for completion of the review; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [45256/26]
Comment on this
The Maternity and Infant Care Scheme (MICS) provides an agreed programme of care to all expectant mothers who are ordinarily resident in Ireland.
This service is provided by the combined care of the family doctor (GP) and a maternity unit of the woman's choice.
The National Maternity Strategy includes a commitment to a review of the Scheme, including the structure and schedule of visits, to ensure that it is meeting the evolving needs of women and health services.
In 2025, the HSE’s National Women and Infants Health Programme convened a review group, conducted a literature review and engaged with key stakeholders to progress this review.
Work is currently underway to progress the outstanding actions of these recommendations.
The report and recommendations are due to be published in 2026.