Paul McGrath (Westmeath, Fine Gael)
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Question 239: To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the criteria which exists for medical card qualification in the case of people who are diagnosed with breast cancer and who are currently receiving treatment; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [15020/06]

Mary Harney (Dublin Mid West, Progressive Democrats)
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Responsibility for the determination of eligibility of applicants for medical cards and general practitioner visit cards is, statutorily, a matter for the Health Service Executive. Under section 45 of the Health Act 1970, medical cards are provided for persons who, in the opinion of the executive, are unable, without undue hardship, to arrange general practitioner medical and surgical services for themselves and their dependants. Section 58 of the Health Act 1970, as amended, provides for general practitioner visit cards for adult persons with limited eligibility for whom in the opinion of the HSE, and notwithstanding that they do not qualify for a medical card, it would be unduly burdensome to arrange general practitioner medical and surgical services for themselves and their dependants.

National guidelines in respect of the assessment of medical card applications are in use by the HSE. These ensure that not only the income aspects of a person's circumstances but also any medical condition which may involve significant costs for the individual or family concerned, are taken into account in determining eligibility.

In 2005 I made significant improvements to the way in which people's eligibility for medical cards and general practitioner visit cards is assessed. The income guidelines used in assessing applications are now 29% higher than they were at the end of 2004. The assessment is now based on an applicant's and spouse's income after tax and PRSI and takes account of reasonable expenses incurred in respect of rent or mortgage payments, child care and travel to work. This is much fairer to applicants. The income assessment guidelines based for general practitioner visit cards are 25% higher than those used for medical cards. The HSE has publicised these changes through a number of measures, including a national advertising campaign and has made the application process as simple as possible.