Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 27 May 2014
712. Deputy Catherine Murphy asked the Minister for Health the numbers of discretionary medical cards which have been reviewed in the past two years and to date in 2014; of those, the number that were withdrawn; the total combined cost saving to the State from the withdrawals; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22130/14]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe information sought by the Deputy is not readily available. However, I have asked the Health Service Executive to supply this information to me and I will forward it to the Deputy as soon as possible.
It should be noted that about 6% of medical cards extant in 2011, where discretion was exercised, have had their eligibility withdrawn by 2014.
I would like to advise the Deputy that it is important to note that where a medical card is withdrawn – irrespective of its having been awarded based solely on means or where the HSE has exercised discretion – it is not withdrawn due on the cost implications for the HSE. In accordance with the Health Acts, a medical card can only be withdrawn due to eligibility not having been established.
