Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 9 December 2004
126 Mr. Lowry asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if persons over 70 years still automatically qualify for a medical card; her views on the medical card provision for the elderly; if it is her intention to remove this automatic qualification in early 2005; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32867/04]
View answerThe introduction of statutory entitlement to a medical card for all persons, aged 70 years and over, who are resident in Ireland, came into effect on 1 July 2001. All persons in this age category qualify free of charge for general practitioner services from a general practitioner in their area who holds a general medical services contract with the local health board. This covers surgery and domiciliary visits where clinically deemed necessary.
They are also entitled to prescribed approved drugs and medicines from community pharmacists, dental and ophthalmic benefits under the GMS scheme, free of charge, and may avail of a range of community based and provided services. They are also not liable for statutory charges for hospital services provided as an inpatient or as an outpatient, when referred by a general practitioner. I have no plans to introduce legislation to change the current statutory eligibility entitlement arrangements for persons aged 70 years and over.
