Jack Chambers (Dublin West, Fianna Fail)
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449. To ask the Minister for Health the considerations that are being made to ensure any increases in pension payments for those aged over 70 will not result in these persons losing their entitlement to a means tested medical card; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29681/16]

Simon Harris (Wicklow, Fine Gael)
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The Health Service Executive issues income guidelines to assist in determining entitlement to Medical/GP Visit cards. In revising the income guidelines, the HSE has regard to Government policy as outlined by the Minister for Health, increases in the consumer price index and to other issues which may be relevant.

There are no proposals at present to amend the current income guidelines for the granting of eligibility for medical cards for persons aged 70 and over. Any decision to amend the current income guidelines would only arise after the announcement of Budget 2017.