1240. Deputy Seamus Healy asked the Minister for Health the position regarding the charging by pharmacists for blister packs given some pharmacists are now charging €5, €10 or €15 for these packs to medical card holders; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [37778/26]

It is important to reaffirm that blister packs have never been a State-funded service under any of the community drug schemes.

On 31 March 2026, I announced a significant reform of phased dispensing arrangements alongside the introduction of a new patient-centred medicines optimisation support framework. These changes will come into effect on 1 June 2026.

The reforms see rigid phased dispensing fees replaced with a more flexible patient-focused model, which empowers pharmacists to use their professional judgement to support patients most in need.

Vulnerable GMS (medical card) patient groups including those with diagnosed cognitive impairment or dementia, intellectual disability, physical impairment or those patients at risk of medication misuse will be supported (from 1 June 2026) where appropriate with a range of tailored medicines optimisation supports including:

• adjustments to facilitate use of original packaging.

• medication reminder systems.

• administration charts.

• instalment dispensing; and

• blister packs where clinically necessary.

Blister packs should remain a last resort in line with the international evidence due to associated risks including reduced patient autonomy and potential safety concerns. Additionally, it is important to note that not all medicines are suitable for blister-packing.

If, after an assessment, a pharmacist determines, using their professional and clinical judgement, that a GMS patient requires a blister pack for clinical or patient safety reasons, it will be provided free-of-charge, from 1 June 2026.

GMS patients who do not clinically need a blister pack, but who wish to avail of it for convenience reasons, are encouraged to discuss this with their pharmacist, who may charge for this service. Their pharmacist will be able to advise them on the wide range of supports that are available and about risks and benefits of different supports, in order to determine the most appropriate support for the individual patient.

Importantly, all GMS patients who were receiving blister packs free-of-charge prior to the Community Pharmacy Agreement (in August 2025) will continue to do so, under the new reforms.