Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 21 November 2013
224. Deputy Willie O'Dea asked the Minister for Health the reason Crohn's disease is not on the long-term illness list; if he will consider adding same in view of the costs of the associated medication; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [50004/13]
View answerThere are no plans to extend the list of conditions covered by the Long Term Illness scheme. Under the Drug Payment Scheme, no individual or family pays more than €144 per calendar month towards the cost of approved prescribed medicines. The scheme significantly reduces the cost burden for families and individuals incurring ongoing expenditure on medicines. In addition, people who cannot, without undue hardship, arrange for the provision of medical services for themselves and their dependants may be entitled to a medical card. In the assessment process, the Health Service Executive can take into account medical costs incurred by an individual or a family. Those who are not eligible for a medical card may still be able to avail of a GP visit card, which covers the cost of GP consultations.
