Brian O'Shea (Waterford, Labour)
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Question 138: To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the number of medical cards promised and delivered, in view of recent announced figures; her views on the fact that despite promises in November 2004 for 30,000 extra full medical cards, recent figures from the Health Service Executive show an increase of people on full medical cards of just 4,728. [3035/06]

Mary Harney (Dublin Mid West, Progressive Democrats)
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I am informed by the Health Service Executive that in January 2006, 1,155,727 people had medical cards, which is 10,644 more than the corresponding figure, 1,145,083, for January 2005.

I made a number of significant changes in 2005 to make it easier for people to qualify for a medical card or a GP visit card. The income guidelines and the income allowances for children, which are taken into account for the purposes of assessment of eligibility for the medical card, were increased from 1 January 2005. A higher rate of increase was applied to the allowances for children and was specifically aimed at assisting low income families with children to access primary care services. Other significant changes I have introduced include: assessment is now based on people's income after tax and PRSI; allowances for children and dependants were increased; and account is taken of reasonable expenses incurred in respect of rent and mortgage payments, child care and travel to work.

In October 2005 the income guidelines for medical cards and GP visit cards were increased by a further 20%. Thus the income guidelines have increased by 29% since 2004. The HSE has publicised these changes and has provided a national information helpline. The executive will continue to encourage people to apply and has made the application process as simple as possible.

In December 2005 my Department asked the HSE to take account of the welfare, taxation or other changes announced in the budget on the operation of the income guidelines and to identify any changes which may be required to ensure that medical cards and GP visit cards continue to be available to those who need them. I expect to receive a report from the HSE shortly about this matter.