Medical Card Eligibility

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 25 March 2014

Tuesday, 25 March 2014

Questions (1043)

Gerry Adams

Question:

1043. Deputy Gerry Adams asked the Minister for Health if he will consider issuing a discretionary medical card to a person (details supplied) in County Meath, taking into consideration the fact that prior to a review in September 2013 this person held a discretionary medical card and the person’s income remains largely unchanged; if he will clarify changes made to the assessment of discretionary medical cards on the grounds of undue hardship and outline the alternative supports available to assist those who are affected; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13284/14]

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 issued to Oireachtas members.