Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 16 July 2014
229. Deputy Clare Daly asked the Minister for Health with regard to the provision of free general practitioner medical cards for over 70s, if this will operate like the drug payment card; and if it can be used in any pharmacy or if persons will have to visit public sector general practitioners in view of the fact that in many areas there are only private practices and all areas experience waiting lists. [31702/14]
View answerAs set out in the recent Statement of Government Priorities 2014-2016, the Government has decided that, as the second phase of implementing the universal GP service for the entire population, all persons over the age of 70 years will qualify for a GP service without fees. Changes to the eligibility for a universal GP service for persons over 70 years of age will require primary legislation. The position in respect of choice of GP will be clarified when the requisite legislation and contractual arrangements are in place.
