Ruth Coppinger
Question:572. Deputy Ruth Coppinger asked the Minister for Health if he will abolish prescription charges for pensioners; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4283/17]
View answerDáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 31 January 2017
572. Deputy Ruth Coppinger asked the Minister for Health if he will abolish prescription charges for pensioners; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4283/17]
View answerThe Programme for Partnership Government contains a commitment to reduce the cost of medicines by reducing the annual co-payment on the Drugs Payment Scheme and reducing prescription charges for medical card holders.
Budget 2017 provides for a reduction in the prescription charge for over 70s medical card holders. I intend to implement this initiative by reducing the per item charge by 50c, from €2.50 to €2.00, and reducing the monthly cap by €5, from €25 to €20. This initiative will require changes in primary legislation and pharmacy payments systems. Subject to the enactment of the necessary legislation, the Government expects that the reductions will take effect on 1 March 2017.
I will continue to examine opportunities to address the cost of the charge to patients, having regard to the funding available.