Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin (Cavan-Monaghan, Sinn Fein)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

34. To ask the Minister for Health the way the Budget 2014 figure of €113 million, under the heading of probity savings for medical cards, was reached; the way he expects this cut to be made; if he has estimated the number of full, general practitioner only and discretionary medical cards that will come under this heading; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [48064/13]

Alex White (Dublin South, Labour)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

The figure for probity savings for medical cards was determined by the Government in the context of the overall framing of Budget 2014. The savings will be achieved through identifying any medical card or GP visit card holder who is not entitled to such eligibility in line with the legislation governing the schemes. Under the relevant legislation, a medical card is approved either on foot of a means assessment, which meets the current financial guidelines, or where the applicant does not meet the income guidelines but there is undue hardship in the arranging of medical services as a result of the medical or social circumstances. The HSE's National Service Plan for 2014 will outline the activity levels for 2014.