Rising Cost of Blister Packs Puts Pressure on Wexford Pensioners

In a growing issue that has sparked concern among our pensioners, the cost of blister packs for medication is set to increase significantly in the new year, putting a strain on individuals already living on fixed incomes. James, a 74-year-old retiree from Wexford, shared his frustration with the recent changes, explaining how the €10 charge for blister packs, which helps him organize and safely take his multiple daily medications, will soon rise to €30 per month. James, who suffers from a range of health issues including COPD and diabetes, relies heavily on these blister packs to manage his medication. "The blister pack is a lifesaver for me," James explained. "It organizes my pills by day and time, making sure I don’t take the wrong medication at the wrong time. Without it, I’d be at risk of making a dangerous mistake." However, the new pricing structure, which will come into effect on January 1st, 2024, is causing financial strain for James and others like him. "I’m on a pension and this extra €20 a month is a huge burden," he said. "I already pay for my car insurance and other basic living costs and now this additional expense is going to make it even harder to get by." The increase in cost comes at a time when many people, including James, are already facing rising living expenses, making the affordability of essential services like medication an even greater challenge. "It’s like paying insurance for your health, but now I’m having to choose between paying for my medication or something else that I need," James said. Pharmacists have explained that blister packs help prevent medication errors, which are crucial for elderly patients who may struggle with remembering to take the right dosage. However, the decision to increase costs has left many in the community feeling abandoned especially pensioners who are already living on tight budgets. James is not alone in his concerns, as many others are reaching out to local authorities to demand that the government find a solution to this issue. "The government needs to step in and ensure that this service remains affordable for everyone," James said