Dáil Éireann Debate, Monday - 11 September 2017
769. Deputy Thomas Pringle asked the Minister for Health his plans to have gestational diabetes covered under existing or new health schemes in order that costs are not imposed on expecting mothers with conditions associated with pregnancy; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36864/17]
View answerThere are currently no plans to make specific provision for gestational diabetes under any new or existing health scheme. However, there are other supports available for access to health products available such as the Drug Payment Scheme (DPS) and the General Medical Scheme (GMS) that would assist patients with gestational diabetes.
Under the Drug Payment Scheme, no individual or family pays more than €144 a month towards the cost of approved prescribed medicines. The scheme significantly reduces the cost burden for families and individuals with ongoing expenditure on medicines.
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 HSE can take into account medical costs incurred by an individual or a family.
