Carol Nolan
Ceist:1326. Deputy Carol Nolan asked the Minister for Health if he will reduce prescription charge for medical card holders; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42463/21]
Amharc ar fhreagraThursday, 9 September 2021
Ceisteanna (1326)
Freagraí scríofa
Prescription charges were introduced in the Health (Amendment) (No. 2) Act 2010, to address the rising costs in the General Medical Services (GMS) scheme.
Budget 2020 provided for a €0.50c reduction in prescription charges for all medical card holders. The charge was reduced by €0.50c to €1 per item for the over 70s and by €0.50c to €1.50 for persons under 70. The maximum monthly charge was also reduced to €10 and €15 respectively.
These reductions took effect from 1 November 2020.
I intend to consider any proposals for further reductions in the prescription charge in the context of the implementation of the health commitments in the Programme for Government and with regard to the funding available.