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Dáil Éireann debate -
Thursday, 28 Jun 2001

Vol. 539 No. 3

Written Answers. - Health Insurance.

Liam Aylward

Question:

141 Mr. Aylward asked the Minister for Health and Children if he will consult with the VHI as to the reason members are not covered for bone density scans in view of his own Department's promotion on preventive medicines, particularly in relation to women's health where osteoporosis requires ongoing treatment; and the outcome of his consultations. [19478/01]

The Deputy requested that I consult with the VHI as to the reason members are not covered for bone density scans. Inquiries have been made of the VHI regarding its determination in relation to this matter and it has provided the following information.

The VHI considered the issue of insurance cover for bone densitometry in August of 1995. At that time, as is still the case, bone densitometry was used both in screening for osteoporosis and in the management of patients with established osteoporosis. With regard to use for screening, coverage was, and is excluded under the VHI's rules. A review of the literature at that time also identified that the cost effectiveness of bone densitometry as a diagnostic procedure and for the management of patients with established osteoporosis had not been established.

The VHI has further advised that the issue has been reviewed in 1998, 1999 and again in 2000. On each occasion an updated review of the literature was carried out and the VHI's conclusion was that the cost effectiveness of bone densitometry had not been clearly proven. The VHI's conclusion is that, as there is insufficient and unclear evidence as to the cost effectiveness of bone densitometry for particular population groups, it has not included the charges associated with it as eligible benefits. If further evidence becomes available to support the overall cost effectiveness of bone densitometry the VHI would consider in future its inclusion in any proposed new product for primary care.

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