I propose to take Questions Nos. 573 and 574 together.
The numbers of applications for hearing aids under the Treatment Benefit scheme in the years 2016 to 2018 are detailed in the following table. There has been an increase in applications of over 50% in the last number of years; this included a significant increase since the self-employed first qualified for the scheme in March 2017.
Year
|
Number of applications
|
Costs in euros
|
2016
|
9,560
|
7.45m
|
2017
|
12,539
|
10.33m
|
2018
|
14,689
|
12.74m
|
The grant payable in respect of the purchase of hearing aids under the treatment benefit scheme is regularly reviewed in light of changes in technology and associated market costs.
The current grant available is 50% of the cost of the hearing aid, to a maximum of €500 per aid, (maximum of two aids in a four-year period) and has been in place since 2012.
I hope this clarifies matters for the Deputy.