Fine Gael Dun Laoghaire TD and member of the Oireachtas Health Committee, Mary Mitchell O’Connor TD, has welcomed the Government’s announcement regarding the eligibility criteria for discretionary medical cards, saying a change of approach is the right decision.

“The review of discretionary medical cards has been causing considerable upset and stress for many families. A number of cases have been highlighted where very ill and vulnerable patients were subjected to unnecessary anxiety and concern.

“I am pleased therefore that the Government has taken the decision to take a fresh look at the eligibility governing the allocation of discretionary medical cards, to ensure it takes account of medical conditions. As a result, the review will be suspended.

“It is essential that the expert panel being set up by the HSE casts a humane and reasonable eye over the factors that are taken into account when a discretionary medical card is being awarded. We must ensure that those who are severely ill get the support they need.

“I also note that the Department of Health has been mandated to develop a policy paper on the further rollout of free GP care, which will be a further step towards Universal Health Insurance.”