Bernard Allen
Question:234 Mr. Allen asked the Minister for Health and Children the plans, if any, he has to provide medical cards to the disabled as an automatic entitlement. [23234/99]
Vol. 510 No. 6
234 Mr. Allen asked the Minister for Health and Children the plans, if any, he has to provide medical cards to the disabled as an automatic entitlement. [23234/99]
Entitlement to health services in Ireland is primarily based on means. Under the Health Act, 1970, 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 to provide general practitioner medical and surgical services for themselves and their dependants without undue hardship.