Michael McGrath (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)
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To ask the Minister for Health his plans to make allowances under the drugs payment scheme for persons who have undergone an organ transplant and who will be on medication for life requiring them to pay the full €144 each month; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [57807/12]

Alex White (Dublin South, Labour)
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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.

There are no plans to make changes to the scheme. 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 general practice consultation.