Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 3 February 2022
28. Deputy John Lahart asked the Minister for Social Protection if she will report on the various supports available from her Department under the treatment benefit scheme; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [5382/22]
View answerThe Treatment Benefit Scheme provides dental, optical and aural services to insured workers, the self-employed, retired people and their dependent spouse/partner who have the required number of social insurance (PRSI) contributions. In order to qualify, a person needs to have at least 260 PRSI contributions paid at either Class A, E, H, P or S, since first starting work, and also have 39 contributions paid or credited in the relevant contribution year on which the claim is based. The following are the entitlements under each of the schemes.Under the dental benefit scheme, a qualified person can get a free examination and a subsidised dental cleaning once per year.Under the optical scheme, they can get a free examination, together with free or subsidised spectacles/contact lenses every two years. Repairs to spectacles are also covered. The medical appliance scheme provided for a 500 euro grant towards the purchase of up to two hearing aids or medically required contact lenses every 4 years. Upcoming changes to the Treatment benefit scheme will see the contribution requirement for those aged 25-29 changing to make it easier to qualify. In addition the frequency period for medically required contact lenses will change from 4 to 2 years. A new option will be introduced under the medical appliances scheme from June 2022, with the introduction of a hair replacement grant for those who have lost their hair due to illness or treatment of an illness.I trust this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.
