247 Deputy Noel Ahern asked the Minister for Health and Children the situation regarding the long-term illness card and if narcolepsy qualifies as being in the family of conditions approved under epilepsy; if narcolepsy can be allowed as covered under epilepsy or any other listed condition; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [41593/10]

Narcolepsy is not an eligible condition under the Long Term Illness Scheme. There are no plans to extend the list of eligible conditions covered by the scheme.

Under the Drugs Payment Scheme no individual or family pays more than €120 per calendar month towards the cost of approved prescribed medicines. The scheme is easy to use and significantly reduces the cost burden for families and individuals incurring ongoing expenditure on medicines.

In addition, 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 Health Service Executive can take into account medical costs incurred by an individual or a family. Those who are not eligible for a medical card may still be able to avail of a GP visit card, which covers the cost of general practice consultations.