The October 2008 budget ended the arrangement whereby medical cards were automatically issued, without a means test to all those aged 70 years and over. The initial thresholds for eligibility were revised on the 21

st October 2008 maintaining eligibility for the majority of those over 70 years of age. However, savings required by the budgetary framework would have to be made elsewhere i.e. the setting of a new capitation rate in respect of patients aged 70 years and over and through economies in drug usage.