Prescription costs add up, especially for a family or anyone on regular medication. The HSE Drug Payment Scheme (DPS) puts a ceiling on what you pay. Here is how it works in plain terms.
What is the Drug Payment Scheme?
Under the scheme, you and your family pay a maximum of €80 in a calendar month for approved prescribed drugs, medicines and certain appliances. If your prescriptions come to more than €80 in a month, the scheme covers the rest.
Who can use it?
It is open to anyone ordinarily resident in Ireland who does not already have those items covered (for example by a medical card). One card can cover you, your spouse or partner, and your children under 18 (or under 23 if in full-time education).
How to apply
You apply to the HSE, either online or on a paper form, and you will receive a DPS card. It is straightforward to apply and to renew.
How it works at our pharmacy
Once you have your card, bring it in and we will register it to your prescriptions. From then on, the scheme is applied automatically when you collect your medicines with us, so you never pay more than the monthly cap here.
We are happy to help
Not sure whether the scheme is worth it for you, or how it fits with a medical card or the Long-Term Illness Scheme? Ask us — we will talk it through.
References
- HSE. Drugs Payment Scheme. hse.ie
- HSE. Apply for a Drugs Payment Scheme card. hse.ie
- Citizens Information. Drugs Payment Scheme. citizensinformation.ie
The 80 euro monthly threshold is correct as of 2026; always check hse.ie for the current amount. Reviewed by the pharmacy team at Laois Pharmacy.
