Tom Fleming (Kerry South, Independent)
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1135. To ask the Minister for Health the number of discretionary medical cards awarded in 2010, 2011, 2012 and to date in 2013; the number that were refused during the same period; the number of discretionary cards that have been withdrawn during this period; the number that have been withdrawn to date in 2013; the reason for the policy change in respect of discretionary medical cards; the reason discretionary cards are being removed from persons who suffer from cancer, leukaemia, cystic fibrosis and other serious and life-threatening illnesses; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [46336/13]

Tom Fleming (Kerry South, Independent)
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1211. To ask the Minister for Health the number of discretionary medical cards awarded in County Kerry in 2010, 2011, 2012 and to date in 2013; the number that were refused during the same period; the number of discretionary cards that have been withdrawn during this period; the number that have been withdrawn to date in 2013; the reason for the policy change in respect of discretionary medical cards; the reason discretionary cards are being removed from persons who are suffering from cancer, leukaemia, cystic fibrosis and other serious and life-threatening illnesses; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [46820/13]

Alex White (Dublin South, Labour)
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I propose to take Questions Nos. 1135 and 1211 together.

Under the provisions of the Health Act 1970, eligibility for health services in Ireland is based primarily on residency and means and medical cards are not awarded to any particular group of patients on the basis of a specific medical condition. However, 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.

The processing of medical cards at a national level, rather than at a local level as before mid-2011, ensures that all people are assessed in a similar and fair manner when applying for a medical card. The consideration of discretion is now standardised and operates in an equitable manner. The medical card scheme is now underpinned with a stronger foundation which enables better governance, more transparency and efficient modern processes. Under these processes, nobody who is entitled to a medical card will lose it or be refused one.

I would like to point out that there has been no change in the policy of awarding discretionary medical cards.

The information sought by the Deputy concerning medical card figures granted on a discretionary basis is not readily available. However, I have asked the Health Service Executive to supply this information to me and I will forward it to the Deputy as soon as possible.