Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 23 July 2024
2274. Deputy Pádraig O'Sullivan asked the Minister for Health when the planned introduction of indicative timelines for completing the reimbursement application process for medicines will go live; if he expects this to impact the current timelines associated with medicines reimbursement; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32240/24]
View answerIn February 2023 I published the Mazars Review which examined the governance arrangements around the HSE’s Drug Pricing and Reimbursement Process. The Report found that the reimbursement process is operating in line with the legislation and that it is delivering results in line with international norms. I fully support the recommendations contained in the Mazars report included improving the process, increasing transparency, providing easier access, and supporting value for money.
In 2024, there will be significant investment in additional staff resources to enhance the HSE’s medicines pricing and reimbursement process. This is a recommendation of the working group established following the publication of the Mazars Review in February 2023.
Funding was allocated by the Government on foot of the Mazars Review for an additional 34 WTE for the agencies involved in the HSE’s medicines pricing and reimbursement.
Funding was also approved by the Government for an online tracker, which will allow patients and industry to follow the progress of an application through the assessment process. This will enhance transparency for all stakeholders. The funding allocation for additional staff includes staff to operationalise the online tracker.
The recruitment campaigns for the 34 WTE are ongoing across the HSE.
The State’s investment in this capacity will support agencies to operate to the fullest of their ability, providing timely and efficient evaluation of medicines for reimbursement. It will also maximise the use of this substantial public investment to support access to more medicines for more people.
All pharmaceutical companies are encouraged to immediately submit applications for reimbursement to the HSE for all new medicines upon authorisation by the European Medicines Agency.
