Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 3 November 2021
156. Deputy Colm Burke asked the Minister for Health the estimated cost of reducing the weekly gross income limit for the over 70s medical card for single persons and couples by €50, €100, €150 and €200, respectively; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53490/21]
Amharc ar fhreagraIn accordance with the provisions of the Health Act 1970 (as amended), eligibility for a medical card is determined by the Health Service Executive (HSE). The HSE issues income guidelines to assist in determining entitlement to medical cards/GP visit cards. Persons aged 70 or older are assessed under the over 70s medical card income thresholds which are based on gross income. Any revision to the income thresholds has regard for Government policy, increases in the Consumer Price Index and other issues which may be relevant.
With regard to the estimated cost of reducing the weekly gross income thresholds for medical cards for persons aged 70 and over, this information is not readily available at this time. However to ensure the medical card system is responsive and sensitive to people's needs, it should be noted that my Department keeps medical card issues such as existing income thresholds under regular review.
Furthermore, it should be noted that on November 1, 2020 the weekly gross medical card income thresholds for those aged 70 and over was increased to €550 per week for a single person and €1050 for a couple, ensuring that a greater proportion of those aged 70 and over now qualify for a medical card.
