Written answers

Tuesday, 23 November 2010

Department of Health and Children

Medical Cards

9:00 am

Photo of Maureen O'SullivanMaureen O'Sullivan (Dublin Central, Independent)
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Question 169: To ask the Minister for Health and Children her views on the fact that the current system regarding medical cards is proving very problematic for vulnerable senior citizens in terms of form filling, access to one-to-one contact with personnel, and particular special circumstances not being taken into account, and if she will address these issues. [43705/10]

Photo of Mary HarneyMary Harney (Dublin Mid West, Independent)
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Under 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 aged over 70 and €1,400 for a couple.

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 HSE will assess if the person qualifies 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. To assist the HSE in making such a determination, it is necessary for the applicant to provide information about medical issues and expenses.

In January 2009, the Health Service Executive's (HSE) Primary Care Reimbursement Services (PCRS) took over the processing of all medical card applications for persons aged 70 or over. Under the centralisation plan, the HSE's Local Health Offices continue to have access to the national system and provide the public with assistance and information locally in relation to medical card eligibility and making an application, and the current status of their application or review.

To date, the central office at PCRS has processed 232,461 Medical Card applications and reviews. 186,512 Medical Cards were issued, 2,034 applications were unsuccessful, 14,141 applications were incomplete and further information is awaited and 7,534 applications are currently being processed.

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