Finian McGrath (Dublin North Central, Independent)
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231. To ask the Minister for Health the position regarding the long-term illness scheme in respect of a person (details supplied) in Dublin 3; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18268/14]

Alex White (Dublin South, Labour)
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The conditions covered by the Long Term Illness scheme are:- Acute Leukaemia, Mental Handicap, Cerebral Palsy, Mental Illness (in a person under 16), Cystic Fibrosis, Multiple Sclerosis, Diabetes Insipidus, Diabetes Mellitus, Muscular Dystrophies, Parkinsonism, Epilepsy, Phenylketonuria, Haemophilia, Spina Bifida, Hydropcephalus and conditions arising from the use of Thalomide. There are no plans to extend the list of conditions covered by the Long Term Illness scheme.

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.