Vol. 435 No. 9
227 Mr. R. Bruton asked the Minister for Health if he will grant long term illness cards to approximately 30 children suffering from the gene defect known as congenital adrenal hyperplasia, in view of the lifelong need for drugs by persons with this condition; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
234 Mr. Haughey asked the Minister for Health if the gene defect known as congenital adrenal hyperplasia is recognised by his Department as a long term illness; and if he will consider this matter in the context of the case of a person (details supplied) in Dublin 3.
I propose taking Questions Nos. 227 and 234 together.
The long term illness scheme covers fifteen 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 that described by the Deputy, 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 drugs and medicines without charge.
