The HSE has guidelines in place in relation to the provision of emergency medical cards to patients with a serious medical condition in need of urgent medical care that they cannot afford. Emergency medical cards are issued within 24 hours of the receipt of the required patient details and letter of confirmation of condition from a doctor or consultant. Emergency medical cards are generally requested through the manager in a Local Health Office or through a social worker.
As this is a service matter it has been referred to the Health Service Executive for direct reply to the Deputy as a matter of urgency.