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Smith welcomes new arrangements for medical cards for over 70s
The Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food and Cavan/Monaghan TD, Mr. Brendan Smith has said that the announcement today by An Taoiseach, Brian Cowen, T.D. regarding medical cards for those aged 70 and over is very significant and should allay the fears which have been expressed by many older people and their families.
“Many constituents have conveyed great disquiet to me regarding the decision over the past week. I recognise the concern that has been caused and I am confident that the new arrangements which have just been made will address the fears that have been expressed to me”, the Minister said.
“The income thresholds in respect of people aged 70 and over has been greatly increased and will mean that 95% will continue to qualify for a full medical card. From now on a single person on a gross weekly income of €700 (€36,500 pa) or less and a married couple on €1,400 (€73,000 pa) will be covered. In addition, it is important to note that for those with incomes above the threshold who may experience difficulty in meeting their medical needs, will be able to apply for a medical card under the HSE’s discretionary medical card scheme”, he added
Also confirming that the new arrangements will not require those currently eligible for a medical card to undergo a means test, the Minister said that from now on only relevant older persons with incomes that exceed the new threshold will have to notify the HSE of their circumstances. He also confirmed that from 1 January 2009, new applicants will be subject to a means test.
“Intense discussions regarding a new capitation rate for doctors in respect of patients aged 70 and over has begun, as well as looking at how savings can be made in drugs cost. I would be very confident, that coupled with the new income thresholds for medical card eligibility, we will be able to make the necessary savings that the new economic reality requires”.
“Due to a very rapid fall in revenue, the Government has been obliged to take the necessary action to restore the national finances. We have had to take some very tough decisions and people have been asked to make sacrifices. I am confident that the new arrangements regarding medical cards for those aged 70 and over, will address the very real concerns which have been conveyed to me during the past week and that the older people in our community and their families should have no fears regarding their access to appropriate medical treatment”, the Minister concluded.
