TD calls for compassion for people 'falling through the cracks' of medical card system
The head of the Oireachtas Health Committee says some people are falling through the cracks when it comes to discretionary medical cards.
Jerry Buttimer is one of a group of TDs who are meeting with HSE representatives in Dublin this morning.
Among the issues expected to be discussed are whether some of the processing of medical cards has been outsourced to a Dublin-based German company.
Deputy Buttimer says it is important that people are treated with compassion.
"Obviously we've people who fall through the cracks," he said.
"We must try and see if we can ensure that those who need medical cards receive them and those who need the support of State receive them and that in the case of where there is discretion to be used that it is being used in a way that is compassionate, that is has empathy with people, and that people who require medical support from the State receive it."
