Vol. 471 No. 7
161 Mr. S. Brennan asked the Minister for Health if he will provide funding for a patient (details supplied) in Dublin 14 who is due to have a lung transplant in a hospital in the United Kingdom in view of the absence of a lung transplant programme in Ireland. [21715/96]
Limerick East): Health boards may refer patients for treatment outside the State where certain criteria have been met, including urgent medical necessity and the non-availability of the treatment within the State. It is a matter for the health board concerned to examine the circumstances of each individual case. The approval of the Department of Health is required only when the cost of treatment exceeds £10,000.
I understand that an application for treatment abroad on behalf of the person referred to has been made to the Eastern Health Board and that it is currently receiving consideration by the board.
