Joe Higgins
Question:166 Mr. J. Higgins asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if she will make coagucheck 1v strips available free of cost to medical and long-term illness card holders. [38856/05]
View answerTuesday, 13 December 2005
Questions (137, 138)
Joe Higgins
Question:167 Mr. J. Higgins asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children her views on whether making coagucheck 1v strips available free of cost to medical and long-term illness card holders, who could then test their blood at home, would reduce the need for hospital visits to the advantage of the health service, and possibly save lives. [38857/05]
View answerWritten answers
I propose to take Questions Nos. 166 and 167 together.
Treatment for patients on anti-coagulation therapy is normally provided in a hospital setting under the supervision of a specialist, or in certain general practitioner clinics with specialist agreement. I understand that a small number of patients may opt to self-test. This is a private matter between them and their doctors. I have no plans to make these testing strips available through the community drugs schemes.