Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 18 December 2018
405. Deputy Gino Kenny asked the Minister for Health his views on the fee of €2,000 that patients who want to determine if they are suitable for the cancer treatment drug pembrolizumab are charged; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53073/18]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Deputy will be aware that a Government decision of 11 May 2018 put in place a package of support measures for the women and families affected by the issues related to CervicalCheck which includes all out of pocket medical costs incurred and medicines which might not be approved for reimbursement, once they are prescribed by the treating clinician. Although not specifically referenced, Pembrolizumab would be encompassed under this aspect of the support package.
This package of supports does not extend to other patients with a diagnosis of cancer. It is not possible, therefore, to meet costs which such patients may have incurred in connection with treatments which they may wish to access outside the public health system.
I have requested the HSE to examine ways in which other women with cervical cancer could be afforded access to Pembrolizumab if prescribed by their treating clinician. The range of issues to be addressed in pursing such an approach includes the question of supply of the product and any terms (including financial ones) under which it might be supplied, the cooperation of the clinical community and the development of appropriate governance and management arrangements, the method of selection of patients suitable to commence treatment and the criteria that would govern clinical decisions in respect of continuation or discontinuation of treatment. Any proposals must place patient safety as a priority, given that this is not a licensed medicine for the treatment of cervical cancer.
I have asked the HSE to revert to me in this regard as a matter of urgency.
