The subject of the €2.50 prescription charge has once again come under scrutiny today after a recent report found that the charge which applies to medical card holders has cost the state millions of euro in funding.
The much debated charge which applies to all those currently holding a medical card has been heavily criticised after it has led to many patients to declare and register for the long term illness benefit which currently carrys no surplus charge.
Although the levy has brought in an estimated €40 million in extra revenue many in the medical profession believe the charge should be scrapped in search of a more affordable alternative.
The detailed report which was released this week has shown that despite the increased revenue a large number of Irish medical card holders are currently exploring many alternative schemes in order to avoid paying the charge which was increased by 50c per item in 2013.
It also highlights the fact that the costs being currently spent on the Long-Term Illness scheme, has significantly increased over the past number years with it rising from €106 million, to €189 million in the year 2015 alone.
The latest findings has led to leading health economists to call for an abolishment of the charges as the increased loss is currently outweighing the gains, they also say the levy should be scrapped as it is currently leading to a system that is unfair.
