Denis Naughten (Roscommon-South Leitrim, Independent)
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To ask the Minister for Health his plans to include haemochromatosis on the list of eligible conditions covered by the long term illness scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [58121/12]

Eric Byrne (Dublin South Central, Labour)
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To ask the Minister for Health if the illness congentialadrenalhyplasia will be added to the long term illness scheme; and if persons who suffer from this illness will be able to avail of a medical card or long term illness card [1194/13]

Alex White (Dublin South, Labour)
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I propose to take Questions Nos. 990 and 1035 together.

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 general practice consultation.