HSE asked to explain denial of medical cards

Health bosses are being asked to explain whether there is a deliberate policy to deny people their right to appeal decisions to withdraw or refuse discretionary medical cards.

The chairman of the Dáil’s Public Accounts Committee, John McGuinness, said a “basic principle” that has historically applied to all areas of public service is now being removed by stealth.

He said letters are going out to seriously ill people who have lost their medical cards, saying the decision will only be reviewed if they have additional, new information relating to their condition or financial circumstances.