Ivana Bacik
Ceist:1163. Deputy Ivana Bacik asked the Minister for Health her plans to reduce the cost of breast cancer and endocrine medication. [2696/25]
Amharc ar fhreagraWednesday, 5 February 2025
Ceisteanna (1163)
Freagraí scríofa
The Health Service Executive (HSE) has statutory responsibility for decisions on pricing and reimbursement of medicines and medical items, in accordance with the Health (Pricing and Supply of Medical Goods) Act 2013.
There are two schemes, administered by the Health Service Executive (HSE) which assist people with their medical costs – these are the General Medical Services (GMS) Scheme, and the Drug Payment Scheme (DPS). Reimbursable claims under both these schemes are based on prescriptions which are transmitted to the pharmacist.
People who cannot, without undue hardship, arrange for the provision of medical services for themselves and their dependants may be eligible for a medical card under the GMS Scheme. In accordance with the provisions of the Health Act 1970 (as amended), eligibility for a medical card is determined by the Health Service Executive (HSE).
In certain circumstances the HSE may exercise discretion and grant a medical card, even though an applicant exceeds the income guidelines, where he or she faces difficult financial circumstances, such as extra costs arising from illness. Medical cards may be subject to review and medical reports may be needed to support the renewal or continuation of the eligibility.
Under the Drug Payment Scheme (DPS), no individual or family pays more than €80 a month towards the cost of approved prescribed medicines. The DPS is not means tested and is available to anyone ordinarily resident in Ireland. The DPS significantly reduces the cost burden for those who are not eligible for a medical card but incur ongoing expenditure on medicines. In some cases, when applying for a DPS card, a medical report for any family member who cannot maintain themselves may be required.
In 2023, further measures have facilitated better access to affordable, high-quality healthcare, including the abolition of all public in-patient hospital charges for adults.
Individuals may also be entitled to claim tax relief on the cost of their medical expenses, including medicines prescribed by a doctor, dentist, or consultant. Relief is at the standard tax rate of 20%.