Holly Cairns (Cork South West, Social Democrats)
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1734. To ask the Minister for Health if he will ensure that all individuals with diabetes are provided with medical equipment to monitor their sugar levels free-of-charge. [2444/23]

Stephen Donnelly (Wicklow, Fianna Fail)
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The Health Service Executive (HSE) provides a wide range of medical and surgical aids and appliances free of charge to eligible people (those with medical cards or those on the Long-Term Illness scheme) following assessment by a relevant health professional.

The Community Funded Schemes (CFS) is a collective name for the many aids and appliances that are provided through community services. Provision is based on an appropriate clinical assessment, the funding available within local budgets, and a determination of the most appropriate product that will meet the eligible person’s needs.

The CFS provides aids and appliances and assistive technologies to a wide section of the community including older people, people with diverse chronic illnesses, and people with disabilities. The actual products and services provided are subject to ongoing assessment and change in line with developments in clinical practice, and as new products are developed and become available to the market.

In order for glucose monitoring devices to be added to the devices available under the CFS national tender arrangements, the relevant marketing authorisation holder needs to apply to the HSE through the national framework application process.

In accordance with the provisions of the Health Act 1970 (as amended), eligibility for a medical card is determined by the HSE and is primarily based on an assessment of means and is not granted on the basis of any particular condition. In certain circumstances, the HSE may exercise discretion and grant a medical card, even though an applicant exceeds the income guidelines, where he or she faces difficult financial circumstances, such as extra costs arising from illness.

The Long-Term Illness (LTI) scheme was established under Section 59(3) of the Health Act 1970 (as amended). Regulations specified 16 illnesses covered by the scheme, including diabetes. Under the LTI scheme, patients receive medicines and medical appliances directly related to the treatment of their illness, free of charge.