Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 6 May 2010
56 Deputy Billy Timmins asked the Minister for Health and Children the position regarding the case of a person (details supplied) in County Wicklow; if, in view of the medical circumstances their request will be included in view of the fact that it is a new drug to enable them to continue this treatment which is working for them; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [18506/10]
Amharc ar fhreagraUnder the Long Term Illness (LTI) Scheme patients suffering from a prescribed disease or disability of a permanent or long-term nature are provided with drugs, medicines or medical and surgical appliances for the treatment of that disease or disability. I understand that the drug referred to by the Deputy is not required in the treatment of the person's qualifying illness under the LTI scheme; therefore, the drug is not available under that scheme. However, the person may have the drug dispensed under the General Medical Services Scheme, if she has a medical card, or the Drugs Payment Scheme. The Drugs Payment Scheme ensures that an individual or family will not pay more than €120 per month for their prescribed drugs and medicines.
