Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 18 December 2013
215. Deputy Terence Flanagan asked the Minister for Health the number of multiple sclerosis patients receiving injectable beta-interferon treatment in 2011, 2012 and to date in 2013; the cost to the Health Service Executive of those treatments; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [54491/13]
Amharc ar fhreagra216. Deputy Terence Flanagan asked the Minister for Health the prescribing guidelines for the various disease modifying treatments for patients with relapsing remitting multiple sclerosis; the extent to which he believes these guidelines are being adhered to; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [54492/13]
Amharc ar fhreagraI propose to take Questions Nos. 215 and 216 together.
The following table sets out the number of multiple sclerosis patients who received injectable beta-interferon treatment in 2011, 2012 and to date in 2013 and the cost to the Health Service Executive of those treatments:
|
Year |
Unique Patients |
Cost |
|
2011 |
1,103 |
€11,285,318 |
|
2012 |
866 |
€10,236,437 |
|
Jan to Oct 2013 |
814 |
€7,480,363 |
In regard to prescribing practises, a Medicines Management Programme (MMP) has been established by the HSE to provide sustained national leadership in this area.
The aims of the MMP include (a) ensuring that patients have access to the essential medicines that they need; (b) facilitating more cost-effective prescribing with initiatives in relation to high-cost medicines; (c) ensuring value for money in relation to medicines; and (d) enhancing evidence based prescribing and optimising patient safety through a reduction in medication related adverse events.
The issue of prescribing guidelines for multiple sclerosis treatments has been referred to the HSE for attention and direct reply to the Deputy.
