Prescription Charges

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 5 February 2013

Tuesday, 5 February 2013

Questions (811)

Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin

Question:

811. Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Health if his attention has been drawn to the fact that there is double charging of the prescription charge on medical card holders where the prescription item, as prescribed by the general practitioner, is not available in the milligram dosage prescribed, that is 15 mg of a given tablet is only available in 10 mg and 5 mg, and 7.5 mg of a given tablet is only available in 5 mg and 2.5 mg, which means that in each case the patient concerned was charged €3 rather than the €1.50 per prescription item; if he will clarify the situation and instruct the pharmacy sector to charge only per item as prescribed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5361/13]

Written answers

Minister of State at the Department of Health

Medical card holders are required to pay a €1.50 charge per item for medicines and other prescription items supplied to them by community pharmacists, subject to a cap of €19.50 per month for each person or family. Charges are not payable in respect of items supplied under the Long Term Illness Scheme. Prescription charges do not apply to children in the care of the HSE or to methadone supplied to patients participating in the Methadone Treatment Scheme.

If there is a particular case to which the Deputy is referring and he provides the details, the HSE can investigate the matter.

Question No. 812 answered with Question No. 794.