Trevor Sargent
Question:61 Mr. Sargent asked the Minister for Health and Children if he will consider the entitlement of medical card holders over 70 years of age to quinine tablets. [30941/01]
Written Answers. - Medical Cards.
A common list of reimbursable medicines was introduced for the general medical services scheme and the drug payment scheme. This list ensures equity between the general medical services and drug payment schemes in relation to the range of medicines paid for by the State under both schemes. This common list is subject to ongoing review and amendment on a monthly basis as new products become available and deletions are notified.
In order for any item to be included in the common medicines list it must comply with a published list of criteria. These criteria range from uses for and licensing of medicines to the pricing of products. With regard to quinine sulphate, I should point out that this product is authorised for the treatment of malaria and for no other indication.