Drugs Payment Scheme

Under the Drugs Payment Scheme, an individual or family in Ireland only has to pay a maximum amount monthly for approved prescribed drugs, medicines and certain appliances for use by that person or his or her family in that month. The amount is determined from time to time by the Minister for Health and Children and at the moment is €90. Anyone ordinarily resident in Ireland can apply to join the scheme, regardless of family, financial circumstances or nationality.

The definition of a family for this Scheme, is an adult, their spouse, and any children under 18 years. Dependents over 18 years and under 23 years who are in full time education may also be included. Forms are available in Whelehans Pharmacy and we can do an emergency registration in a case where you are commenced on expensive medication and you don’t have a DPS card. The DPS card must be renewed every 5 years, a renewal form is sent to your home so you should inform the health board if your address has changed.

It should be noted that along with prescription medication, the following over the counter medication is available on the DPS with a valid doctor’s prescription: