John McGuinness
Question:195. Deputy John McGuinness asked the Minister for Health if a person (details supplied) on a State pension is eligible for hearing aids. [69258/26]
View answerWednesday, 30 September 2026
Questions (195)
Written answers
The Health Service Executive (HSE) Community Audiology Service offers assessment and rehabilitation for adult medical card holders, free of charge. This includes the provision, fitting and repair of appropriate hearing aids.
In accordance with the provisions of the Health Act 1970 (as amended), eligibility for a medical card is determined by the HSE, primarily based on an assessment of means.
The HSE may exercise discretion and grant a medical card, even though an applicant exceeds the income guidelines, where he or she faces difficult financial circumstances.
The HSE afford applicants the opportunity to furnish supporting documentation to determine whether undue hardship exists and to fully take account of all relevant circumstances that may benefit them in assessment.
The Treatment Benefit scheme is funded by the Social Insurance Fund and administered by the Department of Social Protection. The scheme provides certain dental, optical, and medical appliance benefits to qualified people who have the required number of PRSI contributions.
This includes up to €1,000 for a pair of hearing aids, and up to €100 toward repairs, within a 4-year calendar period.
Changes to the Treatment Benefit Scheme, including the level of the grant, or qualifying thresholds, etc, would be a matter for the Minister for Social Protection.