Joe McHugh
Question:1319. Deputy Joe McHugh asked the Minister for Health when he plans to introduce medical cards for persons over 70 years of age; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22109/20]
View answerTuesday, 8 September 2020
Questions (1319)
Written answers
I understand the Deputy is referring to the increase to the weekly gross medical card income limits for those aged 70 and over. The Health (General Practitioner Service and Alteration of Criteria for Eligibility) Bill 2020 was enacted on 2nd August 2020. This Act provides, amongst other things, for the necessary legislative amendments to the Health Act 1970 (as amended) to increase the weekly gross medical card income limits for those aged 70 and over to €550 per week for a single person (currently €500 per week) and to €1050 per week for a couple (currently €900 per week). The Government is finalising decisions on the associated funding for this measure and the implementation date for the commencement of this provision.