Medical Card Administration

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 22 March 2016

Tuesday, 22 March 2016

Questions (413)

Catherine Murphy

Question:

413. Deputy Catherine Murphy asked the Minister for Health if he is aware that for terminally ill patients entering palliative care, the process of applying for a medical card is unnecessarily onerous, stressful and complicated; if this process will be simplified for such patients and their families; if he will introduce a simplified application process or alternatively provide a patient liaison within palliative care settings to oversee the process on behalf of patients; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5295/16]

Written answers

Minister for Health

The HSE has a specific procedure in place for the provision of emergency medical cards for persons who are terminally ill. They are issued within twenty-four hours of receipt of the required person's details and the letter of confirmation of the condition from a doctor or a medical consultant.

No means test applies and cards issued to people with terminal illnesses are not reviewed.