Everyone in Ireland is entitled to both free or subsidised approved prescribed drugs and medicines and certain medical and surgical aids and appliances. The Drugs Payment Scheme (DPS) covers families and individuals for the cost of their prescribed medication.

If you have a medical card or a long term illness you are entitled to prescribed drugs and medicines free of charge. If however you are not covered in this way, under the Drugs Payment Scheme you will not have to pay more than a maximum of €90 (from January 2008) a month.

All those who are ordinarily resident in Ireland are eligible to apply for the DPS providing they do not hold a current medical card. You can use the Drugs Payment Scheme with a Long Term Illness Book.

Persons who wish to apply for the DPS scheme must complete the necessary application form. The necessary forms are available from the pharmacy.

In general, the approved prescribed drugs and medicines are provided by the retail pharmacy (chemist's shop). Pharmacists have entered into agreements with the Health Service Executive (HSE) for the supply of drugs and medicines and for the monitoring of the patient's drug regime. Virtually all pharmacists have agreements with the HSE. In some cases, GPs may dispense drugs directly to the patient. Hospitals and other specialist centres that are controlled by medical practitioners may supply drugs, medicines and appliances directly as well.

For Further Information:

Citizens Information
www.citizensinformation.ie