Fianna Fáil TD for Cork North West Micheal Moynihan says he’s hopeful that a powerful drug that slows the spread of certain lung cancers and extends quality of life for patients will be approved by the HSE.
The case for Tagrisso has been before the HSE since February 2016, but a decision on whether to include it on the drug reimbursement scheme has still not been made.
Deputy Moynihan explained, “Tagrisso is available in over 20 other EU member States but we are still waiting for a decision from the HSE. However, I understand from recent correspondence that discussions are still underway and that an announcement will be made shortly.
“I received a letter from the HSE’s National Director of Acute Strategy & Planning who stated that Tagrisso had been discussed by the HSE Drugs Group and Leadership Team over the past three months and that the Leadership team is “minded to approve the application in view of the clinical benefits”. However, he went on to say that Tagrisso is “an expensive drug” and that “affordability issues are still being addressed”.
“The facts are quite clear. Tagrisso works. The clinical trials have shown that it can extend patients’ lives as well as slowing the spread of the cancer. It has the potential to improve the lives of thousands of lung cancer sufferers in Ireland.
“I am disappointed that it has taken so long to get to this point given the need for this drug, however, I remain hopeful that the HSE will see sense and approve this drug and I will be continuing to engage with officials until a decision is made”, concluded Deputy Moynihan.
