Terence Flanagan (Dublin North East, Fine Gael)
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Question 139: To ask the Minister for Health and Children the position regarding entitlement to a medical card (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8977/11]

James Reilly (Dublin North, Fine Gael)
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The Long Term Illness Scheme was introduced in 1971 under the Health Act 1970. Under the scheme the Health Service Executive may make arrangements for the supply without charge of medicines or medical and surgical appliances to persons suffering from a prescribed disease or disability of a permanent or long-term nature. The award of a medical card is a matter for the Health Service Executive and is based on means. 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 persons ordinarily resident will have free GP care.

Jack Wall (Kildare South, Labour)
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Question 140: 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. [8980/11]

James Reilly (Dublin North, Fine Gael)
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As this is a service matter it has been referred to the Health Service Executive for direct reply to the Deputy.