AQW 64/09

Mrs Naomi Long
Alliance Party
East Belfast

Tabled Date: 02/09/2008
Answered On Date: 16/09/2008
Priority Written: No

Question:
To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety to provide an update in the cost benefit review of prescription charges in relation to students.

Answer:

I established a cost and benefit review of prescription charges as promised in the Assembly debate on this issue in May 2007. The review group have completed their analysis of the current system of prescription charging and have sent their report to me. In recognition of the fact that I am still considering the options, I decided to freeze prescription charges at the 2007/2008 level for 2008/2009 in Northern Ireland. The review is extensive and examines the exemptions relating to age, income and medical conditions which also include those students who currently pay for medication. I hope to make an announcement in the near future when I have concluded my deliberations.