Medicinal Products Expenditure

Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 27 June 2013

Thursday, 27 June 2013

Questions (277)

Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin

Question:

277. Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Health if he will provide in tabular form the total drugs bill for the State in the years 2011, 2012 and to date in 2013; if he will provide a breakdown of same by on-patent, off-patent branded and generic; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31426/13]

Written answers

Minister of State at the Department of Health

The cost to the HSE of drugs and medicines supplied under the GMS, Drug Payment and Long Term Illness schemes was €1.53 billion in 2012 and €1.47 billion in 2011. Figures for 2013 to date are not yet available.

I have asked the HSE to provide a breakdown of this expenditure by on-patent, off-patent branded and generic to the Deputy.