Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 23 March 2004
352 Mr. F. McGrath asked the Minister for Health and Children if a person (details supplied) in Dublin 5 who is diabetic will be given the maximum advice and assistance in obtaining a medical card; and if this matter will be given priority. [8489/04]
Amharc ar fhreagraResponsibility for the provision of a medical card is, by legislation, a matter for the chief executive officer of the relevant health board or authority. My department will contact the CEO of the Northern Area Health Board to ask him to investigate the matter raised by the Deputy and to reply to him directly.
The Deputy should note that diabetes is an eligible condition under the long-term illness, LTI, scheme. Through the LTI, a health board may make arrangements for the supply without charge of drugs, medicines and medical and surgical appliances for the treatment of eligible conditions. Applications should be made directly to the relevant board.
