Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 22 May 2018
441. Deputy Pearse Doherty asked the Minister for Health if treatments for haemochromatosis such as scheduled phlebotomies are available under the long-term illness scheme; if not, if there are plans to extend the scheme with a view to include such treatments; the supports available to persons with the condition to assist with the cost of treatments; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22642/18]
View answerUnder the Long Term Illness (LTI) Scheme, patients receive drugs, medicines and medical and surgical appliances directly related to the treatment of their illness, free of charge. Medical procedures are not covered by the scheme.
Haemochromatosis is not a condition which is covered under the LTI and there are no plans to extend the list of conditions.
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.
