Written answers

Thursday, 21 February 2019

Department of Health

Long-Term Illness Scheme Coverage

Photo of Willie O'DeaWillie O'Dea (Limerick City, Fianna Fail)
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132. To ask the Minister for Health the reason ulcerative colitis is not a recognised disability here; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8875/19]

Photo of Finian McGrathFinian McGrath (Dublin Bay North, Independent)
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There are no plans at present to add ulcerative colitis to the list of conditions currently listed under the Long Term illness scheme. However, any patient with a condition, not listed under Long Term illness scheme, is eligible to apply to the Drugs Payment Scheme or to apply for a Medical Card.

Under the Drug Payment Scheme, no individual or family pays more than €134 a month towards the cost of approved prescribed medicines. The scheme significantly reduces the cost burden for families and individuals with ongoing expenditure on medicines.

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.

People 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.

General medical services are provided by GPs. If the patients clinical condition warrants a referral to a Consultant then their GP will organise that for them.

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