Joan Collins (Dublin South Central, Independents 4 Change) | Oireachtas source

A number of constituents have contacted me about the shingles vaccine following the HSE's advertising campaign telling people over 50 that it is important to get the vaccine. One woman went to her GP, thinking she could get the vaccine there, but was told she needed a prescription to take to a chemist. At two different chemists, she was quoted €460 and €480, respectively, for the two vaccines doses needed. I have heard reports of up to €600 being charged for the two vaccines. My constituent was told there is no scheme to reimburse her costs. A charge of €460 to €600 is a lot of money for people, including pensioners, who do not have it. If pensioners need a vaccine, as recommended by the HSE, why is no scheme in place to reimburse their costs?

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