Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 10 October 2019
194. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Health the extent to which the number of medical card numbers has fluctuated over the past five years; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41519/19]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Primary Care Reimbursement Service (PCRS) within the HSE operates the General Medical Services scheme which includes medical cards and GP visit cards, under the Health Act 1970, as amended.
The following table indicates the number of medical cards as at 1st January for the past five years:
|
Date |
Number of Medical Cards |
|
1st January 2019 |
1,565,049 |
|
1st January 2018 |
1,609,820 |
|
1st January 2017 |
1,669,721 |
|
1st January 2016 |
1,734,853 |
|
1st January 2015 |
1,734,853 |
The figures provided also include discretionary medical card figures.
It should also be noted that the PCRS publish a number of reports in relation to medical card and GP visit card eligibility on a monthly basis. These reports can be accessed online at www.hse.ie.
