Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 5 March 2024
443. Deputy Duncan Smith asked the Minister for Social Protection to ensure that the €500 grant towards the cost of a hairpiece, wig or hair replacement for people who suffer hair loss due to illness is not restricted, therefore preventing people who suffer from alopecia to avail of this grant; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [10246/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraIn general, medical or health related benefits fall within the remit of the Department of Health and the HSE. However, my Department administers the Treatment Benefit scheme which provides certain dental, optical, and medical appliances benefits to insured workers, the self-employed and retired people who have the required number of PRSI contributions. These treatments are also available to their dependent spouse or partner if applicable.
As part of Budget 2022, I announced an expansion to the range of services available under the medical appliances strand of the scheme. A new grant was provided from 28 May 2022 towards the cost of wigs and hairpieces for people who suffer from hair loss due to disease such as cancer and also a number of types of alopecia.
The types of alopecia covered are:
• alopecia areata (which includes alopecia totalis/universalis, diffuse alopecia areata, alopecia ophiasis),
• primary scarring alopecias (including cicatricial alopecia, frontal fibrosing alopecia and lichen planopilaris alopecia),
• chemotherapy induced alopecia (anagen effluvium),
• alopecia resulting from surgery or trauma, including burns.
My Department keeps schemes under regular review to make sure they meet their objectives. If the Deputy has a specific case in mind, I would ask that he send me the details.
