Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 22 February 2023
231. Deputy Brendan Smith asked the Minister for Health if supports will be introduced to assist people suffering with ME and POTS with medical costs arising from their conditions; if his attention has been drawn to reports that, in many instances, people are off work due to these diseases and have a much-reduced income, if any; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9101/23]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Government is committed to making healthcare more accessible and affordable. There are currently two schemes, administered by the Health Service Executive (HSE), which protect people from excessive medical costs.
People who cannot, without undue hardship, arrange for the provision of medical services for themselves and their dependants may be eligible for a medical card. In accordance with the provisions of the Health Act 1970 (as amended), eligibility for a medical card is determined by the HSE. Medical card eligibility is primarily based on an assessment of means and is not granted on the basis of any particular condition.
In certain circumstances, the HSE may exercise discretion and grant a medical card, even though an applicant exceeds the income guidelines, where he or she faces difficult financial circumstances, such as extra costs arising from illness. The HSE afford applicants the opportunity to furnish supporting documentation to determine whether undue hardship exists and to fully take account of all relevant circumstances that may benefit them in assessment, including medical evidence of costs and certain expenses.
In circumstances where an applicant is still over the income limit for a medical card, they are then assessed for a GP visit card, which entitles the applicant to GP visits without charge.
The Drug Payment Scheme (DPS) ensures that no individual or family pays more than €80 a month towards the cost of approved prescribed medicines. The DPS is not means tested and is available to anyone ordinarily resident in Ireland. It significantly reduces the cost burden for families and individuals not eligible for a medical card but with ongoing expenditure on medicines.
Individuals may also be entitled to claim tax relief on the cost of their medical expenses, including medicines prescribed by a doctor, dentist, or consultant. Relief is at the standard tax rate of 20%.
