Drugs Payment Scheme – Benefits, Eligibility and How to apply?

The Drugs Payment Scheme in Ireland limits the monthly cost of approved prescription medications and certain medical appliances to €80 for individuals and families, providing financial assistance to manage healthcare expenses.

Drugs Payment Scheme

The Drugs Payment Scheme (DPS) is a valuable program in Ireland that helps individuals and families manage the financial burden of prescription medications and certain medical appliances. 

This initiative, run by the Health Service Executive (HSE), ensures a monthly maximum out-of-pocket expense, offering relief to those who require ongoing medical treatment. 

The Drugs Payment Scheme is open to all Irish residents and does not have any means-testing requirements. This makes it accessible to a wide range of the population, in contrast with the income-based Medical Card scheme.

• UK Tax Brackets 2024
• DWP Eye Condition Payment 2024
• DWP Child Benefit Payments 2024
• DWP Budgeting Loan 2024
• DWP PIP Vouchers
• DWP PIP Rates 2024
• DWP Jobseekers Allowance 2024

Eligibility criteria for the Drugs Payment Scheme 

To qualify for the scheme, you’ll need to meet certain criteria set by the Health Service Executive (HSE). The key eligibility factors are:

• You must be ordinarily resident in Ireland. This means you intend to live there for at least one year.

• The DPS is not available to individuals or families who hold a medical card. Medical cards already offer reduced prescription charges.

• You can include the following individuals on your DPS application:
  • Yourself
  • Your spouse or partner
  • Dependent children under 18 years old
  • Dependent children aged 18-23 who are in full-time education (proof required)
• In exceptional cases, a family member with a physical or intellectual disability or mental illness who cannot maintain themselves fully can be included. However, you’ll need to provide a medical report as proof.

• There’s no income or financial means test involved in the DPS eligibility process.
• Nationality doesn’t affect your ability to apply for the scheme.

How to apply for the Drugs Payment Scheme in Ireland?

The step-by-step guide to applying for the DPS online:

• Gather the following information for yourself and each family member included in your application:
  • Full Name
  • Date of Birth
  • Sex
  • PPS Number (Personal Public Service Number)
  • Address
  • Contact Details (Phone number and/or email)

• Go to the official HSE website for the Drugs Payment Scheme at https://www2.hse.ie/services/schemes-allowances/drugs-payment-scheme/apply/
• Click on the “Apply Online” button.
• If you’re a new user, click on “Register” to create an account using your email address and chosen password.
• Fill out the online application form with the required information for yourself and each family member included.
• Upload a clear scan or photo of your proof of residency document.
• If including dependent children aged 18-23 in full-time education, upload a scan or photo of the completed and stamped section from their school/university.
• Carefully review all the information you’ve entered to ensure accuracy. Once satisfied, submit your application electronically.

Drugs Payment Scheme Amount

The Drugs Payment Scheme (DPS) in Ireland operates with a single monthly threshold amount that you need to be aware of:

• €80 Threshold: This is the maximum amount you and your eligible family members will pay, combined, for approved prescribed medications and appliances in a calendar month.

How it Works:

• Throughout the month, your pharmacist tracks your spending on DPS-covered items using your DPS card.
• Once your cumulative expenses for that month reach €80, any further prescriptions or appliances you require will be dispensed free of charge.

• The €80 threshold applies to all approved medications and appliances combined for you and your included family members.
• This is a monthly limit, so any unused portion doesn’t carry over to the next month. Your tracking starts fresh each calendar month.

What Does Drugs Payment Scheme Include?

The Drugs Payment Scheme (DPS) in Ireland offers financial support for a specific range of medical products. The Drugs Payment Scheme includes:

Covered Items:

• Approved prescribed drugs and medicines: This includes medications prescribed by a doctor and dispensed by a pharmacy. However, not all medications are covered. 
• Certain medical appliances: The DPS covers a limited range of medical appliances that require a prescription from your doctor. 

Covered Items (may not be exhaustive):

• Medications for various conditions like high blood pressure, asthma, and diabetes (check the list for specific details)
• Inhalers
• Insulin
• Some CPAP machines (continuous positive airway pressure) for sleep apnea
• Oxygen (rental costs)

What’s Not Included:

• Medications or appliances that aren’t on the approved list
• Over-the-counter medications (not requiring a prescription)
• Cosmetics and toiletries

What should I do if my application is delayed?

Here is what you can do if your Drugs Payment Scheme (DPS) application in Ireland appears to be delayed:

• If you’ve waited beyond a reasonable timeframe (around 6 weeks) and haven’t received any updates or your application status remains unclear online, you can contact the HSE for further information. Here are a few ways to reach them:
  • Phone: Call the HSE National Drugs Payment Scheme Helpline at 0818 22 44 78 (Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM).
  • Email: While they don’t provide a dedicated email address for DPS inquiries, you can try contacting the National Drugs Unit at their email explaining your situation and application reference number.
  • Local Office: Visit your local HSE office in person. They might be able to provide you with a more direct update on your application status.