Denis Naughten (Roscommon-South Leitrim, Independent) | Oireachtas source

Section 7(3) is similar to subsection (3) for the next series in chapter 2 and provides that where medicines for the patient or person acting on behalf of the patient are being substituted, the patient has the option of not agreeing to the substitution. If we take that in the context of the reference pricing that we will come to later, it means that if a patient refuses to take the substituted medicine, he or she will have to pay the difference in the cost.

To return to the point I made earlier, it is important that people are given an explanation of exactly what is happening here in regard to generic substitution. I am concerned that a patient on a medical card will go to the supplier with a list of 14 or 15 prescribed medicines and pay the prescription charge and that he will then be told that medicines A, B and C have been substituted. The patient will be told he can accept the substitution or pay an extra €15, or whatever the charge, if he wants the original brands prescribed. It is important the situation is explained to patients and that they are reassured with regard to the generic medicine they are being given. It should be pointed out to them which medicine is being substituted and its purpose. Time must be given to the patients and they should not be just told that they take the alternative medicines or take their usual ones and get charged extra. The approach used with patients is important. It should not just be a case of telling them that it will cost them if they opt for their existing medicine.