Terence Flanagan (Dublin North East, Fine Gael)
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586. To ask the Minister for Health the reason medical card holders that are granted a card solely because of their medical needs currently have to reapply for the card each year; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22192/13]

Terence Flanagan (Dublin North East, Fine Gael)
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597. To ask the Minister for Health if he will consider making changes to the medical card system in order that medical cards that are issued to an applicant based on medical needs are valid for a five year period rather than a one years period; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22249/13]

Alex White (Dublin South, Labour)
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I propose to take Questions Nos. 586 and 597 together.

The Deputy will be aware that, while medical cards are not awarded on the basis of a specific medical condition, the HSE has discretion to grant a medical card in certain circumstances. Medical card applicants who are unsuccessful following the means assessment, but who indicate that they suffer from a medical condition, are then referred to the Medical Officer for consideration on a medical discretionary basis. On average discretionary cards are valid for two to three years, in line with standard Medical Cards/GP Visit Cards. In setting review dates and to avoid causing anxiety, the HSE would be sensitive to the needs and condition(s) of the individual.