Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 16 Oct 2001

Vol. 542 No. 2

Written Answers. - Medical Cards.

Bernard Allen

Question:

320 Mr. Allen asked the Minister for Health and Children the number of applications in the Southern Health Board area which are being finalised for persons over 70 years of age who qualified for a medical card from 1 July 2001; the number of general practitioners who do not have a GMS list and who have registered to attend to persons over 70 years of age who have qualified for a medical card; if the Irish Medical Organisation has agreed all outstanding measures with his Department regarding the introduction of the medical card for persons over 70 years of age; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23981/01]

Minister for Health and Children (Mr. Martin)

The number of applications for medical cards received from persons aged 70 years and over in the Southern Health Board area from 1 July 2001 was 7,467 at 25 September 2001. Application forms are being sent to eight general practitioners in the board's area who previously did not hold GMS contracts. There are no unresolved matters outstanding between my Department and the Irish Medical Organisation on this issue.