Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 10 October 2023
522. Deputy Colm Burke asked the Minister for Health to confirm he is aware of the report by clinicians from the National Cancer Control Programme to an Implementation Working Group (details supplied) that 25% of cancer patients do not receive standard of care due to lack of access to new medicines which are available elsewhere in Europe; if he is concerned by this; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43726/23]
View answer569. Deputy John Lahart asked the Minister for Health if he is concerned by the warning in a presentation by senior oncologists (details supplied); if he is considering making a statement on the matter; if he is taking steps to ensure that timelines for Irish patients to access new medicines do not continue to worsen; if he is considering how much funding will be required to prevent a deterioration in 2024; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [44063/23]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 522 and 569 together.
In 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. A range of stakeholders presented their views, including consultants specialising in oncology. 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.
