Page 2493 - Week 09 - Thursday, 17 September 1992

MINISTER FOR HEALTH

LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTION

QUESTION 260

Spectacles for Pensioners - Supply Contract

Mrs Carnell - asked the Minister for Health

In relation to a contract with OPSM to supply optical-wear for Health Care Card holders (ie. pensioners).

(1) Is there any particular reason why a contract should be signed with one _ .

particular supplier of optical wear.

(2) Has OPSM contracted to supply spectacles at discounted prices.

(3) When the contract with OPSM finishes, could the system be restructured so that

a pensioner receiving a voucher for optical equipment from ACT Health had a

range of optometrists to choose from; if not , why not.

Mr Berry - the answer to Mrs Carnells question is as follows:

(1) No, however under the tendering and contract process better value for money is

usually obtained from a sole supplier.

(2) Yes.

(3) It would be possible, however a separate administrative structure would have to

be set up to oversee such as arrangement, and it may not be possible to get such

discounted prices from a larger range of suppliers. The increased administrative

costs plus the probable increase in the cost of spectacles would far outweigh any

advantage to the consumer that would be provided from one supplier with

outlets ACT wide.

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