Brendan Griffin (Kerry, Fine Gael)
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983. To ask the Minister for Health his views on a matter (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [19967/17]

Simon Harris (Wicklow, Fine Gael)
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In February 2016, the Health Research Board (HRB) was engaged to conduct a comprehensive review of international public funding models for assisted human reproduction (AHR). The HRB evidence review is now complete and was published simultaneously on the Department of Health’s and the HRB's websites on Wednesday 15 March 2017. The HRB evidence review will be analysed by officials in my Department in the context of considering policy options for a potential public funding model for AHR treatment.

It should be noted that while IVF treatment is not currently provided by the Irish public health service, there is some support available in that patients who access IVF treatment privately may claim tax relief on the costs involved under the tax relief for medical expenses scheme. In addition, a defined list of fertility medicines needed for fertility treatment is covered under the High Tech Scheme administered by the HSE. Medicines covered by the High Tech Scheme must be prescribed by a consultant/specialist and approved by the HSE ‘High Tech Liaison Officers’. The cost of the medicines is then covered, as appropriate, under the Medical Card or Drugs Payment Scheme.