Vol. 543 No. 2
352 Ms O'Sullivan asked the Minister for Health and Children if there is a difference in choice of general practitioners between those over 70 years of age who have applied for a medical card under recent changes and those over 70 who were already qualified; if the latter group have a more restricted choice; if so, the reason therefor; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26064/01]
There is no difference in choice of general prac titioners between those people aged 70 and over who became automatically entitled to medical cards on 1 July 2001, and those aged 70 and over who were already qualified. Persons in either group may opt to attend any general practitioner holding a GMS contract – subject to the usual rules governing the scheme. In addition, the appropriately qualified general practitioner of any person who is newly qualified under the 1 July changes who does not currently hold a GMS contract may apply for limited entry to the GMS scheme to continue treating that person.
