Mary O'Rourke
Ceist:275 Mrs. O'Rourke asked the Minister for Health if he will request the relevant health board to review the need for a medical card for a person (details supplied) in County Westmeath who is seriously ill in hospital. [16930/96]
Written Answers. - Medical Card Review.
Limerick East): The issue of a medical card to an individual is a matter for the chief executive officer of the relevant health board. The chief executive officers use income guidelines in deciding on eligibility and will take account of the medical circumstances of the person concerned.
I have had inquiries made of the Midland Health Board in the case referred to by the Deputy and I understand that the board has not granted a medical card to the person concerned as the combined income of the family was deemed to be in excess of the guidelines. The case was also considered on medical grounds. I understand that the board has informed the person concerned of the various other schemes which are available to assist with the person's medical needs.
If the Deputy has any information relating to a change in the person's circumstances which would have implications for eligibility for a medical card, perhaps the Deputy could relay this to me and I will gladly have the matter followed up with the Midland Health Board.