Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 2 July 2024
450. Deputy Sean Sherlock asked the Minister for Health his position regarding indicative timelines for a medicine to complete the application/approval process which he committed to in February 2023; if these have been introduced as per his request to the HSE; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28068/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraIn February 2023 the Mazars Review was published 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. 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 of the Governance Arrangements and the Resources in place to support the HSE’s reimbursement and pricing decision-making process’ in February 2023.
Funding has been allocated for an additional 34 WTE for the agencies involved in the HSE’s medicines pricing and reimbursement system has been granted. This will enable them to conduct timely and efficient evaluations of medicines for reimbursement. It will also maximise the use of this substantial public investment to support access to more medicines for more people. This recruitment process has commenced and is ongoing. Funding has also been approved 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.
Investing in this capacity will support agencies to operate to the fullest of their ability, providing timely and efficient evaluation of medicines for reimbursement.
