Neale Richmond (Dublin Rathdown, Fine Gael)
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860. To ask the Minister for Health if he will consider allowing those who live alone to benefit from the recent decrease to the drugs payment scheme on a pro-rata basis; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9971/22]

Stephen Donnelly (Wicklow, Fianna Fail)
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The Drug Payment Scheme (DPS) provides for the refund of the amount by which expenditure on approved prescribed medicines or medical and surgical appliances exceeds a named threshold in any calendar month. The DPS significantly reduces the cost burden for families and individuals with ongoing expenditure on medicines.

The DPS monthly threshold was reduced by €14 from €114 to €100 on 1 January 2022. On 10 February 2022, the Government announced a further reduction from €100 to €80. This will be effective from 1 March 2022.

People who cannot, without undue hardship, arrange for the provision of medical services may be eligible for a medical card. In accordance with the provisions of the Health Act 1970 (as amended), eligibility for a medical card is determined by the 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.

In circumstances where an applicant is still over the income limit for a medical card, they are then assessed for a GP visit card, which entitles the applicant to GP visits without charge.

Persons 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%.