Medical Aids and Appliances

Tuesday, 24 February 2026

Ceisteanna (1010)

Paul Lawless

Ceist:

1010. Deputy Paul Lawless asked the Minister for Health if she will review the current system for accessing CPAP machines for patients with sleep apnoea, in light of cases where families are paying €118 per month in rental fees in addition to monthly medication costs, with limited support available under the drugs payment scheme; if she will consider introducing a model similar to Northern Ireland where CPAP machines are provided free of charge through primary care; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [14610/26]

Amharc ar fhreagra

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for Health

The Health Service Executive (HSE) has statutory responsibility for medicine pricing and reimbursement decisions, in accordance with the Health (Pricing and Supply of Medical Goods) Act 2013. The HSE also has responsibility for the administration of the Community Drug Schemes, including the Drug Payment Scheme (DPS).

Under the DPS, no individual or family pays more than €80 a month towards the cost of approved prescribed medicines and medical appliances. The DPS is not means tested and is available to anyone ordinarily resident in Ireland. Further information can be found at: www2.hse.ie/services/schemes-allowances/drugs-payment-scheme/card/

The rental costs for a continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machines are included under the DPS. Further information, including how to claim, can be found at: www2.hse.ie/services/schemes-allowances/drugs-payment-scheme/refunds/