Michael Healy-Rae (Kerry South, Independent)
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239. To ask the Minister for Health in respect of the National Asthma Programme, his views on whether cohesive public respiratory health policy is required; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31171/13]

Alex White (Dublin South, Labour)
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The HSE is developing integrated chronic disease management programmes to improve patient access and to manage patient care in an integrated manner across service settings, resulting in best health outcomes, enhanced clinical decision making and the most effective use of resources. The Asthma and Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) Clinical Care Programmes are of particular relevance to respiratory health. These programmes combined with measures to reduce smoking will have a positive impact on the nation's respiratory health in the years ahead. In addition, the Minister for Health intends to bring to Government very shortly a new tobacco policy which sets out a number of measures relating to tobacco control.