Róisín Shortall (Dublin North West, Independent)
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570. To ask the Minister for Health his estimate of the number and proportion of over 70s who stand to lose a GP visit card in 2014; his estimate of the number and proportion of over 70s who stand to lose a medical card in 2014 [16004/14]

Alex White (Dublin South, Labour)
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It is not possible to project precisely potential card changes as the granting and retention of a medical card or GP visit card for a person over 70 years of age is subject to an individual assessment and review process in accordance with the guidelines. A review of existing card holders can result in renewal, change or removal of eligibility as a result.

As part of Budget 2014, the over-70s income limits were reduced to €500 per week for an individual and €900 per week for a couple. It is estimated that about 10% of people currently holding a medical card will, instead, qualify for a GP visit card.