Bernard Allen
Question:280 Mr. Allen asked the Minister for Health and Children when he expects to receive the review on medical card eligibility. [24876/01]
Written Answers. - Medical Cards.
Under paragraph 3.10.6 of the Programme for Prosperity and Fairness, a commitment was given that the health board chief executive officers would examine the operation of the medical card scheme in consultation with the social partners. Particular emphasis is to be placed on the needs of families with children and on removing anomalies and barriers to take-up, including information deficits. The review has been completed recently and I understand the chief executive officers will present a report of their findings to my Department shortly. The report will be considered as part of the existing examination of the issue of eligibility that is taking place in the context of the new health strategy being prepared in my Department.