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Medical Card Eligibility

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 2 February 2016

Tuesday, 2 February 2016

Ceisteanna (353)

Terence Flanagan

Ceist:

353. Deputy Terence Flanagan asked the Minister for Health if he will introduce measures in order that persons who are 80 years of age and over are automatically entitled to a medical card (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4180/16]

Amharc ar fhreagra

Freagraí scríofa

The separate scheme of assessment for an over-70's medical card is applicable to all persons aged 70 and over. Currently, there are no proposals to introduce an age specific income threshold or to provide medical cards to those aged 80 and over without assessment.

I can advise the Deputy that persons aged 70 or older, who are assessed as ineligible under the gross income thresholds, may also have their eligibility assessed under the standard means tested medical card scheme where the qualifying income thresholds are lower. This assessment is based on net income and assessable outgoing expenses, including nursing home or medication costs.

Furthermore, persons aged over 70 years may still be eligible for a medical card on a discretionary basis where they face undue hardship in arranging medical services as a result of medical or social circumstances.

The Deputy should be aware that, from August last year, the Government ensured that all persons aged 70 or older can access a GP service without charges under the second phase of universal GP care.

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