Finian McGrath
Question:311. Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Minister for Health if he will provide an update on the number of children with Down's syndrome who lost medical cards. [1935/14]
View answerThursday, 16 January 2014
Questions (311, 318)
Michael Healy-Rae
Question:318. Deputy Michael Healy-Rae asked the Minister for Health if he will provide statistics from January 2013 to December 2013 in respect of the number of children with Down's syndrome who have lost their discretionary medical cards; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1985/14]
View answerWritten answers
I propose to take Questions Nos. 311 and 318 together.
The HSE can only award medical cards in accordance with the Health Act 1970 which provides that persons that are ‘unable without undue hardship to arrange GP services for themselves and family’ qualify for a medical card. The Act obliges the HSE to take account of the overall financial situation of an applicant and dependants. If an applicant’s means are above the financial thresholds for eligibility for a medical card or a GP visit card, as set out in the national Guidelines, the HSE examines for any indication of circumstances (medical or social), which might result in undue financial hardship. Eligibility may be granted on a discretionary basis if these circumstances are such that a person cannot access General Practitioner or other medical services, without undue financial hardship. In these cases social and medical issues are considered when determining whether or not undue financial hardship exists for the individual in accessing GP or other medical services.
There is no (and has never been an) automatic entitlement to a medical card on the basis of a specific illness or medical need. Medical cards are not issued 'automatically' or irrespective of means, even if an applicant is suffering from a serious medical condition. As medical cards are not awarded on the basis of illnesses or medical conditions, the HSE does not collect data such as illness category, unless it is required for the review procedure.
Down’s Syndrome is covered under the Long Term Illness Scheme for which entitlement applies, irrespective of means. Where persons with Down’s Syndrome are not eligible for a medical card following an assessment of their means, the HSE can provide their full requirements in respect of prescribed medicines and appliances free of charge through this statutory entitlement. Public dental, ophthalmic and aural treatment and appliances are also available free of charge to children and in respect of any difficulties identified at child health or school health examinations. Details of further services available to all patients under the Disabilities Act are available at the local health centre.