Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 28 May 2013
673. Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Health if a person (details supplied) in County Cork is recognised as a sufferer of narcolepsy as a result of the swine flu vaccine, pandermix; if not, if he will ensure a rapid assessment and provide a date and time for same; if he will outline the range of supports available and the process for accessing same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25688/13]
View answerI am pleased to inform the Deputies that there are a number of supports in place for persons diagnosed with narcolepsy following pandemic vaccination. My priority is to ensure that those affected by narcolepsy, with symptom onset post pandemic vaccination are provided with a range of services and supports to meet their health needs. The Health Service Executive has responsibility for health service delivery and at my request, the HSE developed a range of appropriate services and supports to address the needs of this group. Together, the HSE and the Department of Education and Skills provide a very comprehensive range of services and supports to those affected.
These supports and services include access to rapid diagnosis, clear treatment pathways, temporary medical cards and reimbursement of expenses incurred. This includes expenses for counselling services for individuals and also for families of children affected by narcolepsy following pandemic vaccination, in cases where such services are not already available through the HSE. Multi-disciplinary assessments which allow for appropriate individualised health and educational supports to be put in place are ongoing. The National Educational Psychological Service (NEPS) is also engaging with the HSE and with the individual schools and parents of children concerned to identify and provide educational supports for the children and adolescents affected.
The Deputy has raised a query regarding an individual case. The HSE has responsibility for the administration of treatment in this case and delivery of services. The matter has therefore been referred to the HSE for direct reply to the Deputy.
