NOVEMBER 2005

Medical Card Changes will benefit many Donegal Families

The recent changes announced in the Income Guidelines for Medical Cards and GP Visit Cards will benefit families across the county of Donegal, according to Donegal North East Fianna Fáil Deputy, Cecilia Keaveney, TD.

It is essential that people in need of treatment feel they can visit the doctor without the additional worry of costs. The decision to increase the income guidelines by 20% will benefit many young and older people as we head into the winter months", she said.

Deputy Keaveney said that following the changes a single parent with one child can earn €560 a week and qualify for a Medical Card, while a married couple with two children can earn €850 a week and qualify for a GP Visit Card. "In addition many more people across Donegal will be able to visit the GP for free. Many Older People who have not reached retirement will be among the beneficiaries here." She said she will be urging people in Donegal to ensure that they are receiving their full entitlements. It is a fact that many people are not aware of their entitlements. I have contacted both the Minister and the Health Service Executive to ensure that a full information campaign is launched to coincide with these charges."

"This year 1.4 billion has been invested in medical cards. 400 million of this is for GP services. We must ensure that people in Donegal and elsewhere are receiving the full benefit of this major investment," concluded Deputy Keaveney.

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