Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 23 July 2020
259. Deputy David Cullinane asked the Minister for Health the changes that have been made to the drugs payment scheme threshold for singe households since the adoption of Sláintecare; the further moves being considered in relation to same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17853/20]
View answerThe Drug Payment Scheme (DPS), is aimed at individuals and families who do not have a medical card and normally would have to pay the full cost of their medication. It also applies to those who have a GP visit card. Anyone ordinarily resident in Ireland may apply to join this non means tested scheme.
The monthly threshold has never been reduced exclusively for single households. It has however, been reduced for all holders of the card from a maximum of €144 a month to its current limit of €124.
As part of Budget 2020 the previous Government announced that the DPS threshold would be reduced to €114 from 1 September 2020.
I am now consulting with government colleagues on this proposal.
