Gerald Nash (Louth, Labour)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 325: To ask the Minister for Health and Children if he will ensure automatic entitlement to medical cards for all children with Down's syndrome; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8439/11]

James Reilly (Dublin North, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context

The award of a medical card is based on means and there are no plans to provide for the granting of medical cards to any particular group of patients with specific medical conditions, as a whole. However, while the income guidelines are the principal benchmark used for deciding medical card eligibility, the HSE does look beyond the applicant's financial situation and have regard to other appropriate matters in assessing a person for a medical card, such as illness or medical circumstances which result in financial hardship, costs associated with medical requirements and other issues. Those who are not eligible for a medical card may still be able to avail of a GP visit card, which covers the cost of general practice consultations. Under the Programme for Government all citizens will have free GP care.

Jack Wall (Kildare South, Labour)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 326: To ask the Minister for Health and Children the position regarding an application for a medical card in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Kildare; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8474/11]

James Reilly (Dublin North, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context

As this is a service matter it has been referred to the Health Service Executive for direct reply to the Deputy.