Vol. 502 No. 3
392 Mr. N. Ahern asked the Minister for Health and Children the reason a person (details supplied) in Dublin 11 is being refused essential diabetic medication prescribed; if it is excluded from the medication allowed under the long-term illness book; if he will amend regulations in view of medical recommendation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8449/99]
Under the Health Act, 1970, a health board may make arrangements for the supply without charge of drugs, medicines or medical and surgical appliances to persons suffering from a prescribed disease or disability of a permanent or long-term nature. Diabetes mellitus and diabetes insipidus are among the prescribed conditions covered in this scheme. The operation of the scheme is primarily a matter for the relevant health board.
I have referred this case to the Eastern Health Board and have asked the board to communicate directly with the Deputy in the matter.
