Irish residents are entitled to either free or subsidised approved prescribed drugs and medicines and certain medical and surgical aids and appliances.
Under the Drugs Payment Scheme individuals or families only pay a maximum monthly amount for the prescribed drugs, medicines or appliances they use.
People with medical cards pay a charge for medicines that they get on prescription from pharmacies.
The scheme covers free drugs and medical appliances for the treatment of specific long term illnesses and conditions.
You can use a medical prescription in other European states if certain information is included on it.