Departmental Policies

Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 15 December 2022

Thursday, 15 December 2022

Ceisteanna (371)

Róisín Shortall

Ceist:

371. Deputy Róisín Shortall asked the Minister for Health further to Parliamentary Question 156 of 7 December 2022, the rationale for referencing a study (details supplied) in his previous answer regarding nurse prescribing of opioid substitution therapy, in view of the objectives of that study which did not include an exploration of the viability of nurse prescribing; if this study formed the basis for his decision not to progress nurse prescribing; if not, if he will outline his other reasons; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [63072/22]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister of State at the Department of Health (Deputy Frankie Feighan)

As the Deputy is aware, the HSE were tasked, as lead agency, under strategic action 2.1.14 of the National Drug Strategy to examine potential mechanisms to increase access to Opioid Substitution Therapies (OSTs) such as the expansion of GP prescribing, nurse led prescribing and the provision of OSTs in community-based settings. The HSE has provided me with a comprehensive report on the activities it has taken to advance this action. I am happy to share this document with the Deputy.

In view of the above the HSE has advised that the introduction of nurse prescribing of OST/OAT is not a priority at this time. I have accepted this advice.

I have been assured that this matter will be kept under review by the HSE, informed by the needs of service users.

I hope this clarifies the position of the Department of Health on nurse prescribing of OST.

HSE Response