To ask the Minister for Health the time frame for when Gilenya will be available on the Long Term Illness Scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
‘The manufacturer of Fingolimod (Gilenya®) has submitted an application to the HSE for the product to be reimbursed through community pharmacies under the High-Tech Drug Scheme. The list of medicinal products provided under the High-Tech Drug Scheme is reviewed on a regular basis. The application in respect of the product in question is currently under consideration.
The HSE has identified a potential for a significant budget impact with this product and it has therefore been referred to the HSE Drugs Group which examines how new medicines can be introduced into clinical care pathways as and when resources become available.
In addition, the Chief Medical Officer has been requested to engage with the HSE to examine the current decision making process and ensure that there is a robust system in place to drive decision making around medicines and evidence based prescribing It is expected that the Chief Medical Officer shall report on this in the coming weeks.’
Minister for Health, James Reilly T.D.