The HSE’s National Medical Card Unit, PCRS has launched the new centralised Drugs Payment Scheme (DPS) service. This new service allows people, for the first time, to apply online at www.hse.ie/dps for their Drugs Payment Scheme card.
As well as now being able to apply for and renew DPS cards at www.hse.ie/dps, new DPS application forms have been developed, in conjunction with the National Adult Literacy Agency. Forms are available at local Community Health Offices, GP surgeries, community pharmacies, Citizens Information Centres and can be downloaded at www.hse.ie/dps
Under the Drugs Payment Scheme, a person and their family pay a maximum of €134 in a calendar month for approved prescribed drugs, medicines and certain appliance s in that month.
GPs and community pharmacists have been updated about these changes and have been sent new leaflets, application forms and posters about the scheme for patients.
According to Anne Marie Hoey, HSE PCRS, “Making applications for the Drug Payment Scheme available online is another positive development in the centralisation of schemes in the National Medical Card Unit. This new, streamlined service will bring great benefits for people in terms of turnaround times, convenience and security. Anything that makes applying for HSE demand led schemes more convenient for people helps us provide a better service to the public.”
