Medical Card Administration

Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Health the services covered by a full medical card that are not available free to holders of a 2015A scheme card; the reason a difference exists between both; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Simon Harris T.D., Minister for Health: The Redress for Women Resident in Certain Institutions Act 2015 (RWRCI Act) makes provision for a range of primary and community health services (and benefits) in Ireland for women who qualify under the Department of Justice & Equality Restorative Justice Scheme for women who were admitted to and worked in the Magdalene Laundries and similar institutions.

The RWRCI Act provides a statutory basis to grant a 2015A card to women who qualify under this Act. It therefore provides a statutory basis to more services than the medical card, e.g. physiotherapy, chiropody, counselling, home help. In addition, holders do not pay the prescription fee, have enhanced dental services and can attend a GP of choice, once that GP is registered. Furthermore, the ex-gratia payments awarded under the Department of Justice & Equality Restorative Justice Scheme are not included in the means assessment for a medical or GP visit card or the ‘Fair Deal’ scheme.