Long-term Illness Scheme

Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 2 February 2012

Thursday, 2 February 2012

Ceisteanna (239)

Tom Hayes

Ceist:

242 Deputy Tom Hayes asked the Minister for Health if the long-term illness scheme can be reviewed to include lupus (systemic lupus erythematosus). [5944/12]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister of State at the Department of Health (Deputy Róisín Shortall)

There are no plans to extend the list of conditions covered by the Long Term Illness Scheme. Under the Drug Payment Scheme no individual or family pays more than €132 per calendar month towards the cost of approved prescribed medicines. The scheme significantly reduces the cost burden for families and individuals incurring ongoing expenditure on medicines. In addition, 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 Health Service Executive can take into account medical costs incurred by an individual or a family. Those who are not eligible for a medical card may still be able to avail of a GP visit card, which covers the cost of general practice consultation.