Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 29 June 2022
176. Deputy Pauline Tully asked the Minister for Health if he will report on the effect the energy crisis and Brexit have had on the cost of prosthetics and orthotics; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34668/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Health Service Executive (HSE) provides a wide range of medical and surgical aids and appliances, including prostheses and orthoses, free of charge to eligible persons following assessment by a relevant health professional.
These are provided through community services known as Community Funded Schemes and play a key role in assisting and supporting people to maintain everyday functioning, and to remain living in their homes and local community.
Each application within a Community Health Organisation (CHO) is assessed for eligible persons by the local Resource Allocation Group. A determination is made regarding approval based on priority and funding availability within local budgets. Prosthetic services are currently provided by private providers and the cost is charged to the HSE.
At times, due to the demand for resources exceeding the available capacity, waiting lists may apply for some categories of items provided through the medical and surgical aids and appliances budget in a particular CHO. Waiting times also vary depending on the priority rating which is made by healthcare professionals based on clinical risk. Priority is given to clients with the greatest level of clinical need.
The effects of Brexit, global supply chains issues, and the rise in energy costs have unfortunately further impacted the sourcing of appropriate aids and appliances for some applicants. However, CHOs do undertake a range of initiatives to ensure optimum use of resources, for example, through the efficient recycling of stock items such as wheelchairs and walking aids. Therefore, CHOs endeavour to provide medical and surgical aids and appliances in accordance with clinical priorities and subject to budgetary and supply constraints.
A HSE National Service Improvement Programme has the aim of improving the equity of access, value for money, and functional processes of the Community Funded Schemes through the establishment of national guidelines for the provision of medical and surgical aids and appliances.
While this work was delayed due to the Covid-19 pandemic, the Programme has recommenced. A review of the current prosthetics service is underway – under the Orthotics, Prosthetics and Specialist Footwear Work Stream – and is due to be completed by early 2023.
