Arthur Morgan (Louth, Sinn Fein)
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Question 180: To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if persons applying for a general medical card are assessed on individual income or on per income to the household; if they can opt for the most favourable position; the person who has final adjudication authority; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [22047/05]

Mary Harney (Dublin Mid West, Progressive Democrats)
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The Deputy's question relates to the management and delivery of health and personal social services, which are the responsibility of the Health Service Executive under the Health Act 2004. The determination of eligibility of applications for medical cards is statutorily vested in the Health Service Executive. In determining eligibility, the chief executive officer, or a delegated officer, will have regard to the financial circumstances and medical needs of the applicant, and spouse, if any. Recent changes announced by the Health Service Executive will mean that household income, after deductions in respect of PRSI and tax have been made, will be assessed when determining eligibility. Provision will also be made for reasonable expenses in respect of child care, rent-mortgage and commuting to work expenses.

Medical cards may be made available by the Health Service Executive where guidelines are exceeded in circumstances, for example, where there is particular need for medical services. A medical card may be issued to all or some members of a family. However, in all cases, the decision is a matter for the Health Service Executive. In assessing a person's eligibility, every aspect of an individual's financial means and medical expenses are carefully examined to ensure that no financial hardship is caused by the executive's refusal to grant a medical card in any particular case.