Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 29 Jan 2003

Vol. 560 No. 1

Written Answers. - Autism Services.

David Stanton

Question:

750 Mr. Stanton asked the Minister for Health and Children the changes being made by any of the health boards regarding the means testing in relation to the granting of medical cards to children with autism; if it is the case that parents of these children are now included in the means test; if this is a change in practice where in the past the card was issued on medical grounds or by applying the means test to the child only; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [2160/03]

Minister for Health and Children (Mr. Martin)

The determination of eligibility of applicants for medical cards is, by legislation, the responsibility of the chief executive officer of the relevant health board. Medical cards are issued to persons who, in the opinion of the chief executive officer, are unable without undue financial hardship to arrange medical and other services for themselves and their dependants. The means test applicable for medical card applicants is based on family income. In exceptional cases, where the family income of applicants exceeds the income guidelines, a medical card may be issued for one member where medical and/or other needs may so dictate.

I am not aware of any change at local health board level in the methodology for dealing with such cases.