Vol. 575 No. 1
158 Mr. R. Bruton asked the Minister for Health and Children if he has made provision in the 2004 estimates to change the excess or the drugs covered under the drugs refund scheme; and the new provisions in this regard. [27949/03]
The drugs payment scheme threshold will increase from €70 to €78 per month when the necessary administrative arrangements have been put in place. A common list of reimbursable medicines was introduced for the general medical services scheme and the drugs payment scheme. This list ensures equity between the schemes in respect of the range of medicines paid for by the State under both schemes. The common list is subject to ongoing review and amendment on a monthly basis, as new products become available and deletions are notified.
