Séamus Kirk (Louth, Fianna Fail)
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154. To ask the Minister for Health his plans to introduce a minor ailment scheme, similar to a scheme which is running in the United Kingdom; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27754/15]

Séamus Kirk (Louth, Fianna Fail)
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155. To ask the Minister for Health if he is aware of the Pharmacy First scheme in the United Kingdom; his plans to introduce a similar scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27755/15]

Kathleen Lynch (Cork North Central, Labour)
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I propose to take Questions Nos. 154 and 155 together.

The development of primary care services is an essential component of the health reform process. In a developed primary care system, up to 95% of people's day-to-day health and social care needs can be met in the primary care setting. Pharmacy services are well placed within the community to provide essential health advice and to support effective care at the lowest level of complexity.

As we continue to experience increased pressure on resources within the health system, it is necessary to consider new and innovative ways to provide the services required. Expanding the role of the community pharmacist to include provision of services such as a Minor Ailments Scheme is worth exploring as we seek to further expand and develop the primary care sector. A Minor Ailments Scheme can offer patients real benefits in terms of improving patient access and choice in the delivery of primary care services. It is however important that such proposals generate real savings on existing public expenditure, as the health service continues to operate within tight budget constraints.

My Department has engaged the services of the Health Research Board to undertake a review of the evidence base for such a service, including the application of such schemes in other countries. It is expected that the evidence review will be completed by the autumn. This piece of research will further inform the Department's consideration of this policy proposal, including any contractual or funding implications that may arise.