Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 11 February 2026
329. Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Health the mechanism that exist, or are being considered, whereby a clinician, pharmacist, or multidisciplinary care team may formally certify that monitored dosage systems, including blister packs, are clinically necessary for an individual patient; and whether such certification would permit continued provision without cost to the patient under existing schemes. [10673/26]
View answerI would like to again reiterate that the State has never funded blister packs. Therefore, there has been no change or removal of funding by the State. It remains a private service, and community pharmacies may decide to charge patients for providing this service.
However, the changes in phased dispensing fees have highlighted the broader use of blister packs. Internationally, the guidance is that blister packs should be a last resort with patients being supported by many other interventions. Nevertheless, I recognise that for certain patients, using them can be helpful. My Department officials are currently examining this issue as a matter of priority.
