Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 9 April 2024
1595. Deputy Ged Nash asked the Minister for Health if he is aware that some GPs are continuing to issue six-month repeat prescriptions for long-term medicines and medical devices, despite the new rules introduced from 1 March, allowing them to issue these prescriptions for 12 months; what he and his Department are planning to do to ensure that GPs comply with the new rules; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15327/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraI was pleased to introduce changes to prescriptions which took effect from the 1st March this year.
From that date, the maximum legal validity of prescriptions was changed from 6 to 12 months.
This means that from 1st March, prescribers can write prescriptions for patients that are valid for up to 12 months, if they believe it is appropriate and in the best interest of the patient.
These enabling provisions have been put in place to support health professionals and patients. Previously, prescribers could not write prescriptions for longer than 6 months, but they now may write a prescription for up to 12 months, if they deem it clinically appropriate and feel it is in the best interests of the patient to do so.
Prescribers will use their professional judgement at all times, and what may work well for one patient may not be appropriate for another.
It is a matter for the treating GP to determine in the case of each individual patient what is proper and necessary care.
