Drugs Payment Scheme Threshold

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 8 July 2014

Tuesday, 8 July 2014

Ceisteanna (788)

Brendan Griffin

Ceist:

788. Deputy Brendan Griffin asked the Minister for Health if he will consider reducing the ceiling of the drug refund scheme in Budget 2015. [29899/14]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister of State at the Department of Health

Under the Drug Payment Scheme, no individual or family pays more than €144 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 GP consultations.

There are no plans to alter the Drug Payment Scheme threshold.