Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 16 Jun 1998

Vol. 492 No. 4

Written Answers. - Drugs Refund Scheme.

Minister for Health and Children (Mr. Cowen)

The policy in respect of the availability of oxygen and equipment to patients is a matter for the chief executive officer of each health board. In the case of medical card holders, I understand that generally where a hospital consultant has prescribed oxygen and this has been approved by the health boards' area medical officer, oxygen and equipment is supplied free of charge. In some cases a small deposit on the equipment is required, which is generally refundable on return of the equipment e.g. oxygen cylinders.

In the case of non-medical card holders, I understand that in general patients may claim a refund in respect of oxygen under the drugs refund scheme. With regard to equipment, patients may be required to purchase the equipment at cost price or pay a rental charge, which may be refundable under the drugs refund scheme. I understand that in the Eastern Health Board, applications for assistance towards the cost of equipment are currently assessed on means grounds. However, the Eastern Health Board are now putting in place protocols to ensure that non-general medical service patients who have confirmed clinical needs will obtain a refund on equipment under the drugs refund scheme.