28/04/2016

FF Calls For Phase Out Of Prescription Charges

Prescription charges should be phased out as the cost is prohibitive for many people, Fianna Fáil TD Margaret Murphy O'Mahony has said.

"I am really concerned by reports in the media that up to a quarter of people are not taking the medication they require because the prescription charge is acting as a barrier to them. If people take the medicines they need, they are more likely to be kept out of hospital, thereby saving money for the state," Deputy Murphy O'Mahony said.

"Fianna Fáil is committed to making healthcare affordable to everyone. Phasing out prescription charges would help to ease the burden on families and patients with long-term illnesses. I have met people across west Cork who have seen the €2.50 prescription charge cause them real hardship. It is having a disproportionate impact on people on fixed incomes such as pensioners. As further detailed in our "Independent Living Contract for older people" eliminating prescription charges on a phased basis is a key goal for Fianna Fáil.

"I am committed to ensuring that the people of west Cork can access affordable healthcare and not have to worry about getting sick. Our manifesto pledge to abolish prescription charge is one I am still wholeheartedly committed to. Our health service has been mismanaged and left with many problems following the Fine Gael-Labour coalition's time in power.

"Phasing out prescription charges is one measure that Fianna Fáil intends to introduce to reform our health service. It is a part of our manifesto that I will continue to fight for," concluded Deputy Murphy O'Mahony.

(MH/CD)

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