Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 22 January 2013
595. Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Health the way he will deliver the €10m savings in the high tech drugs bill as outlined in the Health Service Executive National Service Plan 2013; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [2440/13]
View answer649. Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Health his views on the annual State spend on high tech drugs in each of the years 2009, 2010, 2011 and 2012; the medications involved; the savings he has negotiated and secured across each of the relevant expenditures; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [2969/13]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 595 and 649 together.
The HSE proposes to introduce a formal returns arrangement with suppliers of High Tech Medicines in cases where a community pharmacy no longer has a requirement for particular medicine previously delivered to that pharmacy location. Such a returns arrangement will have to comply with relevant legislative and regulatory requirements. The HSE is also developing an electronic authorisation (e-authorisation) module in conjunction with prescribers in hospitals to improve the efficiency of the Scheme. Rheumatology is the initial clinical programme involved.
In relation to expenditure on High Tech Drugs, I wish to advise that this information is being collated by the HSE and will be forwarded to the Deputy as soon as it is available.
