Maureen O'Sullivan (Dublin Central, Independent)
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Question 196: To ask the Minister for Health if he will consider including Macular Degeneration in national health campaigns and public awareness campaigns directed both at the public and general practitioners in view of the fact that it is currently on the increase in Ireland and early detection is key to successful treatment; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24487/12]

James Reilly (Dublin North, Fine Gael)
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The clinical program for ophthalmology is looking at the best delivery of care for macular degeneration. The Programme has identified five main work streams, one of which is Macular Degeneration (AMD). A Working Group comprising statutory and voluntary stakeholders has been set up to look at best care pathways for ongoing delivery of service.

The Irish College of Ophthalmologists, the Association of Optometrists and patient advocacy groups such as the National Council for the Blind of Ireland (NCBI) and Fighting Blindness participate in an annual public awareness campaign on AMD along with other stakeholders. During the AMD awareness week a mobile unit travels around the country providing free testing for macular degeneration and this along with the media exposure can lead to early detection.