asked the Minister for Health the number of persons between the ages of 66 and 75 who are entitled to (1) medical cards and (2) hospital service cards; and if he will give similar particulars in respect of persons aged 75 and over.
Written Answers. - Medical/Hospital Services Cards.
238.
The information sought by the Deputy is not available in the form requested. However, the number of medical card holders on 31 January 1988 aged 65 and over was 37,134. It is estimated that this number taken together with eligible dependants represents approximately 90 per cent of this age group.
Approximately 45 per cent of the population are eligible to obtain hospital services cards. Health boards keep a record of the number of hospital services cards issued but there is no breakdown into age groups.
I might add that it is not essential to have a hospital services card when applying for services. Satisfactory evidence of income, e.g. form P.60, will suffice.