Wednesday, 29 May 2013

Written Answers Nos. 235-8

Medical Card Appeals

Questions (236)

Sandra McLellan

Question:

236. Deputy Sandra McLellan asked the Minister for Health the reason it took from August 2012 until February 2013 for a person (details supplied) in Cork with a severe chronic illness to receive a decision on their medical card application; the reason that person was refused and was not considered on discretionary grounds in view of the fact that they suffer from Crohn's disease; if he will approve and expedite this person's appeal; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26041/13]

Written answers

Minister of State at the Department of Health

The Health Service Executive has been asked to examine this matter and to reply to the Deputy as soon as possible. The Health Service Executive operates the General Medical Services scheme, which includes medical cards and GP visit cards, under the Health Act 1970, as amended. It has established a dedicated contact service for members of the Oireachtas specifically for queries relating to medical cards and GP visit cards, which the Deputy may wish to use for an earlier response. Contact information has recently reissued to Oireachtas members.

Medical Aids and Appliances Provision

Questions (237)

Ciaran Lynch

Question:

237. Deputy Ciarán Lynch asked the Minister for Health when a mobility aid will be provided for a person (details supplied) in County Cork; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26045/13]

Written answers

Minister of State at the Department of Health

As the Deputy's question relates to service matters I have arranged for the question to be referred to the Health Service Executive for direct reply to the Deputy.

Health Services

Questions (238)

Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin

Question:

238. Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Health if he will review the supports in place for persons (details provided) in County Wexford; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26049/13]

Written answers

Minister of State at the Department of Health

As the Deputy's question relates to service matters, I have arranged for the question to be referred to the Health Service Executive for direct reply to the Deputy.