Vol. 530 No. 5
125 Mr. N. Ahern asked the Minister for Health and Children the way in which a person (details supplied) in Dublin 11 will be supplied with spectacles if on a social welfare scheme or long-term illness book; if she will qualify for a chiropodist card as she has been advised to use professional services only. [4385/01]
The provision of the services referred to by the Deputy is, in the first instance, a matter for the relevant health board. I am advised by the Eastern Regional Authority that a person suffering from diabetes and holding a long-term illness book does not qualify for a chiropody card or spectacles under the health board scheme.
A medical card holder may, as a diabetic qualify for a chiropody card. They may also obtain spectacles if they do not have an entitlement under the scheme operated by the Department of Social Community and Family Affairs. A person referred by a general practitioner may also receive a chiropody service from a hospital out-patient department if required.
