The Minister for Health and Active Ageing, Jo Etienne Abela, announced that in the coming days, with an investment of approximately €352,000 per year, 480 paediatric patients and 1,120 adult patients will start to benefit and be offered a supply of free adrenaline auto-injectors (EpiPen). The measure will also reduce the financial burden on families, who until now have been purchasing these medicines out of pocket.
“The Government is continuing to strengthen public health services by introducing a new measure that puts patient safety first”, stressed Dr Abela.
Minister Jo Etienne Abela explained that this measure is an important step in the prevention and management of a potentially fatal condition, where every second counts. He said that the auto-injectors will provide an essential tool that can save lives in critical moments.
Eligible patients will be able to book appointments with Government clinical consultants, who will carry out an assessment based on previous episodes of anaphylaxis. Upon approval, the medicine will be available through the Pharmacy of Your Choice (POYC) scheme in accordance with the updated guidelines.
He explained how adult patients will begin receiving two auto-injectors per year, one immediately and one later during the year, and pediatric patients will begin receiving two auto-injectors at once.
Minister Jo Etienne Abela said that despite procurement challenges at an international level, the Government has managed to secure this supply through coordinated work, with a clear focus on the interest and safety of the patient. This initiative reflects a continued commitment towards a health system that protects life and improves the quality of life of citizens.
“This is a measure that can really make the difference between life and death. We are investing not only in treatment, but in prevention and in the peace of mind of patients and their families. Every patient at risk of anaphylaxis should have the necessary tools at hand at the critical moment”, concluded Dr Abela.
Photo (MHA)
