Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 2 November 2021
1035. Deputy Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Health his views on the difficulties a person (details supplied) is having regarding obtaining their prescription; and if support can be provided to them in obtaining a prescription for their condition. [52970/21]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Health Service Executive (HSE) has statutory responsibility for decisions on pricing and reimbursement of medicines under the community drugs schemes, in accordance with the Health (Pricing and Supply of Medical Goods) Act 2013. In making a relevant reimbursement decision, the HSE is required under the Act to have regard to a number of criteria including efficacy, the health needs of the public, cost effectiveness and potential or actual budget impact. The Minister for Health has no role in these decisions.
In Ireland there are various services in place to protect individuals from excessive medical costs. People who cannot, without undue hardship, arrange for the provision of medical services for themselves may be eligible for a medical card. In accordance with the provisions of the Health Act 1970 (as amended), eligibility for a medical card is determined by the HSE based primarily on financial means. In addition, where an applicant is over the income limit for a medical card, they are then assessed for a GP visit card, which entitles the applicant to GP visits without charge. Under the Drugs Payment Scheme, no individual pays more than €114 a month towards the cost of approved prescribed medicines. Further information on these, and other schemes, is available at www2.hse.ie/costs-schemes-allowances/.
It is important to note that the medical decision to prescribe or not prescribe any treatment for an individual patient is strictly a decision for the treating clinician, in consultation with their patient. The Minister for Health has no role in this clinical decision-making process and Section 6 of the HSE Governance Act 2013 bars the Minister for Health from directing the HSE to provide a treatment or a personal service to any individual or to confer eligibility on any individual.
As as part of this question relates to a service matter, I have also asked the HSE to respond to the deputy directly, as soon as possible.
