Finian McGrath (Dublin North Central, Independent)
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147. To ask the Minister for Health his views on a matter (details supplied) regarding medical cards for those over 70 years of age; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15072/15]

Kathleen Lynch (Cork North Central, Labour)
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There has been no change made or proposed to the eligibility requirements for medical cards for persons aged 70 years and older. Persons over 70 can be assessed under the over-70s gross income arrangements. In addition, persons aged over 70 years can be assessed under the standard medical card means test which is open to persons irrespective of their age. Furthermore, persons, including those aged over 70 years, may 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.

However, in parallel with the introduction of the under-6 GP service without fees which will commence during the summer, a GP service without fees will be provided for all persons aged 70 years and over. The Health (General Practitioner Service) Bill 2015, which was published on 25 March 2015, will provide the statutory basis for the over-70s universal GP service. The new over-70s GP service will benefit approximately 36,000 people who currently pay to attend a GP as they are not covered by a medical card or a GP visit card.