Following discussions between the Health Service Executive (HSE) and the National Treatment Purchase Fund (NTPF) and with the agreement of my Department, it has been determined that services to women affected by the PIP breast implant controversy, in particular those patients treated through the Harley Medical Group, will be provided by the HSE. The aim is to ensure that anyone with a concern about their implants will have the option of discussing those matters in the first instance with their GP or surgeon. If the outcome of this discussion between the patient and their doctor is that an individual requires further follow-up and treatment (up to and including removal of the implants) then this will be facilitated through public hospitals. Owing to competing budgetary priorities it was not possible to commence this service in 2012.
The Department will continue to liaise with the appropriate personnel in order to assist with development and management of appropriate care arrangements for PIP clients who have not been able to satisfactorily resolve their aftercare issues with the main provider. My Department's and the Irish Medicine Board's advice to women - which is based on the available scientific evidence - remains consistent : there is no current evidence of health risks associated with PIP implants.
