Maureen O'Sullivan (Dublin Central, Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

471. To ask the Minister for Health the supports in place for persons diagnosed with long-term degenerative diseases such as Parkinson's who do not qualify for a medical card; if there are significant financial demands on persons who are often on very modest incomes but are just above the threshold for a medical card; if State assistance is required for persons in this predicament. [42956/15]

Kathleen Lynch (Cork North Central, Labour)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

Parkinsonism is one of 16 long-term illnesses or disabilities covered by the Long Term Illness Scheme, which was established under Section 59(3) of the Health Act, 1970 (as amended). This scheme is administered by the Health Service Executive (HSE), and provides free drugs, medicines, and medical and surgical appliances directly related to the treatment of the specific conditions covered.

In the medical card assessment process, the HSE can take into account medical costs incurred by an individual or a family. Furthermore, the HSE may exercise discretion and grant a medical card even though an applicant's means exceed the prescribed threshold, where deemed appropriate.

The HSE has also taken steps to ensure greater interaction between the medical card central assessment office and the Local Health Office and/or Primary Care Team to see if there are further circumstances or needs that would support a medical card application, and to ensure that assistance is provided to meet the individual's needs as far as possible (where they do not have a medical card).

The Drugs Payment Scheme (DPS) provides assistance for people who are not eligible for either a medical card or the Long-Term Illness Scheme. Under the DPS, an individual or family pays a maximum of €144 each month for approved prescribed drugs, medicines and certain appliances for use by that person or his or her family.