Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin (Cavan-Monaghan, Sinn Fein)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

To ask the Minister for Health the expected cost savings from the introduction of the Health (Pricing and Supply of Medical Goods) Bill 2012 and the negotiations with regards the cost of on-patent drugs; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43485/12]

James Reilly (Dublin North, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

The Health (Pricing and Supply of Medical Goods) Bill 2012 will introduce a system of reference pricing and generic substitution for prescribed drugs and medicines. These reforms will promote price competition among suppliers and ensure that lower prices are paid for these medicines resulting in savings for taxpayers and patients.

The Bill is a Government priority for this session. It has completed its passage through the Seanad and will be debated in this House shortly. It is not possible, at this juncture, to provide accurate figures regarding potential savings resulting from the Bill, as this depends on various factors. Negotiations are ongoing between officials of the Department/HSE and the two bodies that represent pharmaceutical manufacturers here regarding reductions in the price of medical products supplied under State Schemes. It is expected that these negotiations will conclude shortly and provide significant savings in the cost of medicines.