Research indicates that approximately 1 in 83 people in Ireland are predisposed to develop hereditary haemochromatosis. The HSE does not hold a database of individuals with haemochromatosis and therefore is not in a position to provide information in relation to the prevalence of this condition across the country.
A statutory daily charge is levied where a person has been referred to a hospital for an in-patient service, including that provided on a day case basis. Where venesection is classed as a day case procedure, and is not carried out in an out-patient setting, the public in-patient charge applies. Medical card holders are exempt from this charge.
Also, the Irish Blood Transfusion Service (IBTS) operates a haemochromatosis clinic in the Stillorgan Blood Donation Clinic and sees approximately 600 patients there annually. The IBTS has also commenced provision of a programme for hereditary haemochromatosis patients in their D'Olier Street, Dublin and St. Finbar's Hospital, Cork clinics. These clinics provide phlebotomy free of charge to patients who have a prescription from their treating clinician.
