Michael Ferris
Question:125 Mr. Ferris asked the Minister for Health if he will request health boards to accept legitimate farm expenses when assessing farming applicants for medical cards; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - Medical Card Applications.
Under the 1970 Health Act the determination of eligibility for medical cards is the responsibility of the Chief Executive Officer of the appropriate health board. Medical cards are issued to persons who, in the opinion of the Chief Executive Officer, are unable without undue hardship to arrange general practitioner medical and surgical services for themselves and their dependants. Income guidelines are available to assist Chief Executive Officers in the determination of a per-son's eligibility.
In assessing the applications of selfemployed persons, such as farmers, account is taken of relevant business expenses in arriving at an estimate of the applicants' income.
I might mention that, arising from a commitment in theProgramme for Economic and Social Progress, the Chief Executive Officers of the health boards have established a review group in order to ensure uniformity and consistency in the assessment procedures used in all health board areas. I am aware that this Group has been examining, in particular, the method of assessing the income and costs of farmers.