Noel Ahern
Question:332 Deputy Noel Ahern asked the Minister for Health and Children if she will assist with the renewal of medical cards in the case of persons (details supplied) in Dublin 11. [3711/10]
View answerTuesday, 26 January 2010
Questions (248, 249)
Written answers
As this is a service matter it has been referred to the Health Service Executive for direct reply to the Deputy.
Noel Ahern
Question:333 Deputy Noel Ahern asked the Minister for Health and Children the position regarding the renewal of medical cards in respect of persons (details supplied) in Dublin 11 who applied two months ago; if she will locate their application and have it renewed before the expiry date of 2 February 2010; and if she will have the new system of medical cards at North Road, Finglas examined. [3712/10]
View answerI fully support the Health Service Executive's decision to centralise the processing of all medical card and GP visit card applications and renewals at the Primary Care Reimbursement Service (PCRS) in Dublin as the Executive has advised that when fully implemented, the initiative will ensure:
Improved turnaround times for processing of applications: under the new arrangements the HSE will be aiming for a turnaround time of 15 working days or less, with provision for emergency applications to be dealt with immediately;
Consistent and equitable application of eligibility and service provision;
Clearer governance and accountability, as well as improved management information; and
A reduction in the overall number of staff required to process medical/GP visit card applications, thus freeing up staff for other service needs.
I wrote to all Oireachtas members last week providing the position on medical card applications in the PCRS.
As the other issue raised by the Deputy is a service matter, my Department has requested the Parliamentary Affairs Division of the Executive to arrange to address this matter and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.