Medical Card Administration

Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 8 March 2017

Wednesday, 8 March 2017

Questions (72)

Martin Ferris

Question:

72. Deputy Martin Ferris asked the Minister for Health the data collection processes that exist in respect of the return of medical cards following death; the number of medical cards that were returned and cancelled as a result of patient death in each of the past five years; the number of death certificates signed by general practitioners in respect of GMS patients; the number of medical cards that were not reissued following the expiration date as a result of the death of a patient; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11896/17]

Written answers

Minister for 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 was issued to Oireachtas members.