Thomas Pringle (Donegal South West, Independent)
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28. To ask the Minister for Health his plans to review the operation of the long-term illness scheme; if he will outline the details of this process and when he expects it to be completed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27044/14]

Alex White (Dublin South, Labour)
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The Long Term Illness (LTI) Scheme was established under Section 59(3) of the Health Act, 1970 (as amended). Regulations were made in 1971, 1973 and 1975 specifying the conditions covered by the LTI Scheme. There are no plans to extend the list of conditions covered under the Scheme.

My Department is currently reviewing the overall policy concerning the LTI Scheme. It is expected this review will be completed later this year. However, there are no plans to review the Scheme along the lines of the work of the expert panel established by the Health Service Executive to review eligibility for medical cards.

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 HSE 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.