Richard Bruton
Question:79 Mr. R. Bruton asked the Minister for Health if he will extend the long term scheme in order to cover the condition of Lupus; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - Lupus Patients.
The long term illness scheme covers 15 specified illnesses and there are no plans at present to extend the scheme to include any further conditions. The long term illness scheme, however, is only one of a number of schemes in operation which provide assistance towards the cost of prescribed drugs and medicines for persons with ongoing medical conditions.
Persons with conditions such as Lupus who in the opinion of the chief executive officer of the appropriate health board are unable to meet their medical expenses without undue hardship may be granted a medical card which will entitle them to the supply of all prescribed drugs and medicines without charge.
Any other person with an ongoing medical condition, such as Lupus, which imposes a requirement for continuous medication, can benefit under the terms of the drug cost subsidisation scheme. This scheme limits the actual expenditure of authorised beneficiaries on prescribed medicines to £32 per month. This scheme is being availed of by many Lupus sufferers.
I am satisfied that these schemes, together with the drugs refund scheme, ensure that the treatment of all sectors of the population, and of Lupus sufferers in particular, are being met.