Health Services Expenditure

Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 4 March 2015

Wednesday, 4 March 2015

Questions (147)

Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin

Question:

147. Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Health the current cost to the State of providing free access to all prescribed medicines for those with medical cards. [9508/15]

Written answers

Minister of State at the Department of Health

In 2014 the cost of medicines for the medical card scheme was €1.253 billion which includes the ingredient cost and appropriate fees but is net of manufacturers rebate income. Additionally the revenue associated with the prescription charge would be foregone if free access to all prescribed medicines was provided for those with medical cards. In 2014 the prescription charge income is projected to be €120 million.