Danny Healy-Rae (Kerry, Independent) | Oireachtas source

In the programme for Government, access to health care was promised for people who have illnesses.

When one applies for a medical card at present, it is only dated from the date it is granted. I am asking that a medical card be made effective from the day the person applies for it.

Those with serious illnesses, such as lyme disease, have to travel abroad to get their problems addressed and have to pay a savage cost. The Government indicated that more people will have access to medical cards. I ask the Taoiseach to ensure that those with lyme disease are covered with a medical card because they are enduring savage costs going abroad because the medical care is not here for them.

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