181. Deputy Patrick Nulty asked the Minister for Health his views on the ways in which CPAP machines could be purchased by those who need them as an alternative to long-term rental of these machines; if he will put in place a scheme by which these machines can be purchased; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11089/14]

Arrangements have been in place for the rental of Continuous Positive Airflow Pressure (CPAP) Machines for some time both for Medical Card Holders and Drug Payment Scheme card holders where the person suffers from sleep apnoea. Funding for the purchase of such appliances by medical card holders may be considered within the overall priority setting for funding at local level from the Aids and Appliances budget.