370. Deputy Alan Farrell asked the Minister for Health the cost of increasing each of the medical card income limits by 10%. [43777/24]

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. 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.

The information required to respond to this request is not readily available and it is not feasible to provide an estimate within constrained timeframes available. I have therefore requested officials in my Department to undertake further analysis in this area and to respond to the Deputy directly with additional relevant information as soon as possible.