asked the Minister for Health the total number of medical cards issued in Ireland in each of the past three years, and the total cost to State funds of this service in each of these years.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Issue of Medical Cards.
68.
Mr. O'Malley
I presume that the first part of the question relates to the number of general medical services cards current in each year.
As the reply to the question is in the form of a tabular statement, I propose, a Cheann Comhairle, with your permission, to circulate it with the Official Report.
Following is the statement:—
|
Year |
Number of medical cards current on 31st March |
Number of persons covered by these cards, that is, holders and dependants |
*Cost of General Medical Service for year ended 31st March |
|
1963 |
272,283 |
783,275 |
1,581,000 |
|
1964 |
289,484 |
824,363 |
1,681,600 |
|
1965 |
295,875 |
839,299 |
2,256,800 |
*The Exchequer and the health authorities each bear half the cost of the service.