Tom Fleming (Kerry South, Independent)
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664. To ask the Minister for Health the reason applicants that have recently been granted full medical cards that are valid for another 2 to 3 years are now being requested to complete a review form having already gone through a detailed application process; his views on whether this is a best use of resources and frustrating for applicants; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24226/13]

Alex White (Dublin South, Labour)
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The Health Service Executive operates under the legislative framework of the Health Act of 1970, as subsequently amended. In the interest of probity, the HSE is obliged, irrespective of the age of the person, to ensure that a person’s eligibility is correctly recorded in line with the eligibility legislation and the national guidelines. The HSE aims to ensure that every person who is entitled to the medical card schemes is given the opportunity to avail of their entitlement.

Medical cards for persons aged 66 years are generally reviewed every 4 years and for those under 66, the length of validity is 3 years. Depending on the individual's circumstances, it may be issued for a shorter period. If an individual's circumstances change - or those of a dependent - he/she must inform the HSE, as he/she may no longer be eligible. In addition to the standard assessment and review processes, random audits of eligibility will also be undertaken by the HSE on an on-going basis. If selected for review under this process, the Medical Card holder will be informed and requested to submit up to date income details.

Any medical card holder undergoing a review to renew a medical card, who genuinely engages with the HSE in that review, will not have their entitlement withdrawn before the review is complete. This applies, regardless of the expiry date shown on the medical card and the reviewee is also advised of the appeals process.