Billy Kelleher
Ceist:225. Deputy Billy Kelleher asked the Minister for Health if he will rule out an increase in the prescription charge from 50c in Budget 2013; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42415/12]
Amharc ar fhreagraThursday, 4 October 2012
Ceisteanna (225)
Freagraí scríofa
Medical card holders are required to pay a 50c charge for medicines and other prescription items supplied to them by community pharmacists, subject to a cap of €10 per month for each person or family. Charges are not payable in respect of items supplied under the Long Term Illness Scheme. Prescription charges do not apply to children in the care of the HSE or to methadone supplied to patients participating in the Methadone Treatment Scheme.
Prescription charges result in savings to the Health Service Executive of approximately €27 million annually. Due to budgetary constraints I am not in a position to remove the 50c prescription charge.