Medicine reimbursement reform
The government has proposed an overhaul of the reimbursement system for prescription medicines due to take effect from the beginning of 2006.
The reform of current legislation, which is scheduled to take effect from the beginning of next year, aims to better clarify the system of reimbursements. It also seeks to cut the wholesale cost of medicine, the effect of which will be to reduce consumer prices somewhat.
The new arrangement will end the fixed amount that customers currently pay for medicines that come within the basic compensation and lower special compensation categories of medicines.
Medicines will be subject to three categories of reimbursements, 42%, 72% and the current one of 100% on certain medicines. This amends the current system of 41.9%, 70% and 97.1% reimbursements.
Further information:
Marjaana Maisonlahti, Senior Officer, Legal Affairs Section, tel. +358 9 160 73174