Medical Cards.

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 8 March 2005

Tuesday, 8 March 2005

Ceisteanna (175)

John Perry

Ceist:

210 Mr. Perry asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the avenues open to a person (details supplied) in County Sligo to ensure that a general practitioner completes his application for a medical card in view of the fact that he is scheduled to enter a treatment centre on 9 March 2005; if she will ensure that her officials issue a temporary medical card to allow this person to have this treatment; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [7843/05]

Freagraí scríofa

Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children (Ms Harney)

The Health Act 2004 provided for the Health Service Executive, which was established on 1 January 2005. Under the Act, the executive has the responsibility to manage and deliver, or arrange to be delivered on its behalf, health and personal social services. This includes responsibility for the assessment of applications for medical cards. Accordingly, my Department has requested the chief officer for the executive's north western area to investigate the matter raised and to reply directly to the Deputy.