Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 20 November 2025
614. Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Health the number of persons aged 70 or over projected to lose entitlement to a medical card or GP visit card in 2025 and 2026 due to pension increases not being reflected in updated medical card income thresholds. [64881/25]
View answer622. Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Health the projected annual cost of increasing medical card thresholds for older persons in line with the most recent pension increase; and the estimated number of additional medical card holders such a measure would support. [64889/25]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 614 and 622 together.
Eligibility for a Medical Card is primarily based on a financial assessment which is conducted by the HSE in accordance with the Health Act 1970 (as amended). The HSE assesses each medical card application on a qualifying financial threshold. This is the amount of money that an individual can earn a week and still qualify for a card. It is specific to the individual’s own financial circumstances. Current medical card income thresholds can be considered generally in terms of cohorts aged 70 or older, and under 70 years of age, with separate thresholds and assessment criteria for each.
With regard to the estimated cost of the Deputy's proposals, the information sought is not readily available and will need to be determined. Officials from my Department will be in further contact with the Deputy directly with relevant information as soon as available.
