DPS cardholders can claim refunds if charged over €80 a month

The Drug Payment Scheme (DPS) caps monthly charges for approved prescribed drugs, CPAP machine rental and oxygen rental at €80 per family, and any overpayment can be reclaimed from the HSE.

The scheme is available to anyone living in the Republic of Ireland for at least one year, with no means test. A single DPS card covers the whole family, applying the €80 limit per calendar month rather than per individual.

A reader of the Irish Examiner reported being charged €80 in September and again €80 at the end of the same month after receiving a 28‑day supply of tablets that did not last until the next prescription date. The pharmacy claimed the second supply was for October, but the prescription still contained 28 tablets, leaving the reader short of medication by 26 October. A further €80 charge was incurred in October, again insufficient for the following month.

The article explains that many Irish pharmacies dispense medication in 28‑day blister packs, effectively operating on a 28‑day month. The HSE provides a “13th month” of free medication to cover the extra days, but it is not always dispensed automatically and must sometimes be requested.

Cardholders who have been charged more than €80 in a calendar month should complete a refund claims form, available on the HSE website, and submit it with copies of invoices or receipts.

Source: Irish Examiner. Photo: Lance Reis / Pexels.