Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 10 October 2023
465. Deputy Alan Dillon asked the Minister for Health the progress that has been made on implementing the recommendations made by an organisation (details supplied) on the reimbursement of new medicines; which recommendations have been implemented to date; which recommendations have not been implemented to date; and the timeline for implementing the remaining recommendations. [43484/23]
View answerIn February, I published the Mazars Review which examined the governance arrangements around the HSE’s Drug Pricing and Reimbursement Process. The Report found that the reimbursement process is operating in line with the legislation and that it is delivering results in line with international norms. I fully support the recommendations contained in the Mazars report around improving the process, increasing transparency, providing easier access, and supporting value for money.
An implementation group has been established between my Department and the HSE to consider and progress the various recommendations contained in the Report. The membership of the Group includes representatives of the Drugs Group, the HSE, the NCPE, and the Department of Health. The Working Group has met frequently since its establishment, to consider the involvement of patients, agencies, industry, and clinicians, in each stage of the reimbursement process.
Targeted stakeholder consultation commenced on the 31st of May and concluded on the 20th of June. The insights gained from stakeholders will be considered by the Group as it continues its work on progressing the various recommendations of the Review. A report on this will be submitted to me in the coming months.
