Written answers

Tuesday, 27 May 2014

Department of Health

Medical Card Reviews

Photo of Catherine MurphyCatherine Murphy (Kildare North, Independent)
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712. To ask the Minister for Health the numbers of discretionary medical cards which have been reviewed in the past two years and to date in 2014; of those, the number that were withdrawn; the total combined cost saving to the State from the withdrawals; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22130/14]

Photo of Alex WhiteAlex White (Dublin South, Labour)
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The information sought by the Deputy 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.

It should be noted that about 6% of medical cards extant in 2011, where discretion was exercised, have had their eligibility withdrawn by 2014.

I would like to advise the Deputy that it is important to note that where a medical card is withdrawn – irrespective of its having been awarded based solely on means or where the HSE has exercised discretion – it is not withdrawn due on the cost implications for the HSE. In accordance with the Health Acts, a medical card can only be withdrawn due to eligibility not having been established.

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