Medical Cards

Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 19 May 2010

Wednesday, 19 May 2010

Ceisteanna (95)

Pádraic McCormack

Ceist:

117 Deputy Pádraic McCormack asked the Minister for Health and Children her plans to restore the funding and eligibility for orthotics equipment and other disability aids for persons with a medical card; if her attention has been drawn to the long-term damage that can be caused particularly in the case of young children who need several orthotic replacements during the year due to their continued growth; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [20897/10]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister of State at the Department of Health and Children (Deputy John Moloney)

As the Deputy is aware persons with full eligibility (Category 1, i.e. medical card holders) are entitled to a full range of health services, the provision of which are the responsibility of the Health Service Executive. I regret that due to industrial action affecting the Health Service Executive, it is not possible for the Executive to supply the information requested. However, officials in my Department have raised the issue of the provision of disability aids and appliances for persons with a medical card in the HSE West region with the Health Service Executive. I will ask the HSE to inform the Deputy of the current position.