Róisín Shortall (Dublin North West, Independent)
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410. To ask the Minister for Health in view of the proposed changes to the medical card system, if he will ensure that, in respect of applicants over the age of 70 years, their net income will be considered when assessing their means rather than their gross income, as is the case at present, in order to simplify the process and ensure its fairness; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [46131/14]

Kathleen Lynch (Cork North Central, Labour)
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The Deputy will be aware, that applications for medical cards for persons aged 70 years and older can be assessed both on the basis of the standard national assessment guidelines using a "net income" approach andon the basis of the guidelines for persons aged 70 years or over using a "gross income" approach. Furthermore, persons aged over 70 years may still be eligible for a medical card where discretion is exercised where they face undue hardship in arranging medical services as a result of medical or social circumstances.

I can advise the Deputy there are no plans to review the assessment process for medical cards for persons aged 70 years and over.