Dara Calleary (Mayo, Fianna Fail)
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1037. To ask the Minister for Health if he has considered adding Addison's Disease to the long term illness scheme; his views on whether Addison's Disease is a severe illness with sufferers more often than not developing at least one associated endocrine condition; his views on whether the costs involved in treating Addison's Disease is a huge financial burden for sufferers; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27902/13]

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 GP consultations.