Joe Higgins
Ceist:166 Mr. J. Higgins asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if she will make coagucheck 1v strips available free of cost to medical and long-term illness card holders. [38856/05]
Amharc ar fhreagraDáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 13 December 2005
166 Mr. J. Higgins asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if she will make coagucheck 1v strips available free of cost to medical and long-term illness card holders. [38856/05]
Amharc ar fhreagra167 Mr. J. Higgins asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children her views on whether making coagucheck 1v strips available free of cost to medical and long-term illness card holders, who could then test their blood at home, would reduce the need for hospital visits to the advantage of the health service, and possibly save lives. [38857/05]
Amharc ar fhreagraI propose to take Questions Nos. 166 and 167 together.
Treatment for patients on anti-coagulation therapy is normally provided in a hospital setting under the supervision of a specialist, or in certain general practitioner clinics with specialist agreement. I understand that a small number of patients may opt to self-test. This is a private matter between them and their doctors. I have no plans to make these testing strips available through the community drugs schemes.