Question from Deputy Paul McAuliffe - PQ 8125-26

To ask the Minister for Health if she is aware of a strategy (Minister I draw your attention to the ILFA Strategy 2025 - 2028 which indicates that Ireland falls short of international standards in reimbursement schemes (https://irishthoracicsociety.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/ILFA-Final-Strategy-Cover.pdf - Appendix 2, pages 36, 40). Specifically, "Denmark’s national health system ensures that patients receive access to essential medications, oxygen therapy, and rehabilitation programs without significant out-of-pocket expenses, supporting equitable access to lung fibrosis care across income levels. In the UK, oxygen electricity costs are free of charge." So again I am requesting advice on achieving affordable oxygen therapy, including financial relief measures such as electricity subsidies, for patients who rely on home oxygen concentrators); and if she will make a statement on the matter.