Written answers
Wednesday, 1 May 2013
Department of Health
Long-Term Illness Scheme Coverage
Pat Breen (Clare, Fine Gael)
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251. To ask the Minister for Health in view of the increase in the number of persons suffering from arthritis here and the cost of treatment for the condition, his plans to include arthritis as one of the qualifying medical conditions under the long term illness scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20703/13]
Alex White (Dublin South, Labour)
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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.
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