Fergus O'Dowd (Louth, Fine Gael)
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Question 23: To ask the Minister for Health and Children the percentage of people covered by the full medical card and the doctor only card respectively, in view of the recent downturn in the economy and the number of people out of work; the estimated percentage increase for end of 2009; the thresholds for same; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [20625/09]

Bernard Durkan (Kildare North, Fine Gael)
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Question 133: To ask the Minister for Health and Children her views on raising the income thresholds for eligibility for medical cards; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [20904/09]

Mary Harney (Dublin Mid West, Progressive Democrats)
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I propose to take Questions Nos. 23 and 133 together.

The most recent medical card and GP visit card figures provided to my Department by the Health Service Executive (HSE) reflect the position on 31st March 2009. The total number of medical card holders on 31st March 2009 was 1,370,764 and the total number of GP visit card holders on that date was 87,277. Accordingly, 32.97% of the national population (4,422,100) have either a medical card ( 31%) or a GP visit card (1.97%), based on the most recent population estimates available from the Central Statistics Office.

In its Service Plan for 2009, the HSE has provided for a net increase of 81,000 medical cards in 2009 i.e. a total of 1,423,830 medical cards by year end. The average monthly increase in the first quarter of 2009 was 6,214 medical cards, which if continued until the end of 2009 would result in a net increase of some 75,000 medical cards. The average monthly increase for GP visit cards in the first quarter of 2009 was 577, which if continued until the end of 2009 would result in a net increase of some 7,000 GP visit cards in 2009. Based on these estimates, the net number of medical card holders would increase by 5.5% and the net number of GP visit card holders would increase by 8.2% in 2009. It should be noted however that these are projections based on the figures for the first three months and the position may change as the year unfolds.

My Department is currently reviewing all legislation relating to eligibility for health and personal social services with a view to making the system as fair and transparent as possible. As part of this exercise, a review of the eligibility criteria for medical cards in the context of financial, medical and social need is being undertaken. A Steering Group has been established which is expected to complete this work and report to me within the next few months. I will then consider the course of action to take as regards income thresholds for medical cards.

The current income guidelines that apply to applicants for a medical card in respect of persons aged 70 years and over and persons aged under 70 are set out in the following tables. Medical Card Gross Income Thresholds for Applicants aged 70 & Over

Medical Card & GP Visit Card Net Income Thresholds for Applicants aged under 70

- These guidelines for persons aged under 70 are before allowances are given for reasonable expenses incurred in respect of; rent/mortgage payments, childcare costs and travel to work.

- Applicants, whose weekly incomes are derived solely from Social Welfare or Health Service Executive allowances / payments, which are in excess of the income thresholds (either at first application or on renewal), will be granted medical cards.