Brendan Howlin (Wexford, Labour) | Oireachtas source

As indicated, this includes an additional allocation of €150 million over what was previously indicated. The demand for health services continues to grow due to demographic pressures and we must make certain these services continue to meet the health needs of our population. For example, by the end of year, it is expected that expenditure on the primary care reimbursement service will account for 20% of total HSE expenditure. This growth is being driven by the cost of drugs, payments to professional service providers and the growth in the numbers of medical cardholders. We will take measures to contain these costs, while at the same time ensuring that medical needs are met.

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