Richard Bruton (Dublin North Central, Fine Gael)
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Question 84: To ask the Minister for Health and Children the reason she has chosen to use gross income as the basis of the means test for medical cards in respect of persons aged 70 years and over whereas net income is used in all other medical card eligibility tests; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [14063/09]

Mary Harney (Dublin Mid West, Progressive Democrats)
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Under the new arrangements effected by the Health Act 2008, a much simplified system of assessment for eligibility was introduced in respect of persons aged 70 or over, based on the significantly higher gross income thresholds rather than the standard net income limits. The gross income thresholds are €700 per week for a single person and €1,400 for a couple, as against net income limits of €201.50 for a single person and €298 for a couple. Under the net income assessment system, allowance may be made for rent/mortgage, travel to work and child care costs. However, these would not be a factor for the vast majority of older people.

Where a person aged 70 or over does not qualify for a medical card by virtue of their gross income being over the specified thresholds, the person may apply to the HSE for a medical card or GP visit card under the existing net income thresholds.

Notwithstanding the above, the HSE may issue a medical card on a discretionary basis, if the applicant would otherwise be caused undue hardship in providing general medical and surgical services for himself/herself and any dependants.