Hse agrees to extend access to lifesaving drug

Good news may well be on the way for Bellewstown man, John Duggan, as the HSE confirmed today that it will extend access to the life-saving drug Soliris to sufferes of Paroxysmal Nocturnal Hemoglobinuria (PNH) and atypical Haemolytic Uraemic (aHUS).
John is a PNH patient, who has been undergoing blood transfusions every six weeks or so.
In a statement issued today the HSE said that due to the exorbitant cost of the drug (approximately €430,000 per patient per year) the provision of Soliris for patients will be on the basis of clinical need.
“Treating clinicians can apply to the HSE’s Medicines Management Programme (MMP) in order to commence a screening process for their respective patients. This screening process will commence immediately. Individual patients are not required to take any action at this time,” according to the statement.
Deputy Helen McEntee welcomed the decision saying it would have life changing implications for people such as John Duggan and his wife, Aileen.
“They are a young couple whose life has been put on hold as a result of John’s condition. With funding for John’s treatment now secured, they should be able to get on with their lives and live normal lives,” she said.