Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 16 December 2025
1010. Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Health the work, governance structure, timelines and outputs of the Programme of Work Underway within her Department examining the medical card eligibility framework; and to specify whether this work includes an assessment of approval trends for discretionary medical cards for people aged over 70. [71983/25]
Amharc ar fhreagraA strategic review of eligibility is being undertaken as part of Sláintecare 2025+. In order to achieve the goal of universal healthcare in line with the commitments made in Sláintecare, we must first review existing eligibility arrangements and see how they align with current population needs while identifying gaps in the eligibility framework.
It is in this context that my Department has commenced a long-term project to review Ireland’s current eligibility policies, with a focus on services delivered at primary and community care level.
This overall programme of work will review the existing eligibility framework, including the provision and administration of medical cards, to clearly assess what is working well and to inform future policy proposals regarding the eligibility framework based on robust evidence.
Phase 1 of the strategic review is due to be completed in the months ahead. Phase 2 of the strategic project will examine the findings of phase 1. This will then inform the development of evidence-based policy options for a future eligibility framework to support a progressive move towards universal healthcare.
