Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 19 January 2022
1701. Deputy Colm Burke asked the Minister for Health the estimated cost of increasing the weekly income limits for the general practitioner visit card by proportions of 10% and 15%; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1354/22]
View answerIn accordance with the provisions of the Health Act 1970 (as amended), eligibility for medical cards and general practitioner visit cards are determined by the Health Service Executive (HSE). The HSE issues income guidelines to assist in determining entitlement to medical cards/GP visit cards. Revisions to the income thresholds has regard for Government policy, increases in the Consumer Price Index and other issues which may be relevant.
With regard to the estimated cost of increasing the weekly income thresholds for GP visit cards, this information is not readily available at this time. However to ensure the medical/GP visit card system is responsive and sensitive to people's needs, it should be noted that my Department keeps both medical and GP visit card issues, such as existing income thresholds, under regular review.
