asked the Minister for Health if in view of the small number of people suffering from the disease, Disseminated Lupus Erythemathosus, (details supplied) if he will agree to include it on the long term illness list.
Written Answers. - Long Term Illness Scheme.
194.
This particular condition is one of a number of illnesses which have been the subject of representations over the years as regards their possible inclusion in the list of ailments covered by the long term illness scheme. The question of extending the scheme to encompass these conditions has been the subject of ongoing review by successive Ministers for Health. It is not possible to contemplate any extension of the scheme at the present time. I am quite satisfied, however, that the present arrangements for the issue of medical cards and the availability of the benefit of the refund of the cost of drugs scheme are such as to ensure that no hardship should arise.