1177. Deputy Pádraig O'Sullivan asked the Minister for Health whether the current cost-effectiveness criteria used in the assessment of medicines adequately reflect the needs of patients with rare diseases and small patient populations; and whether any changes are under consideration. [64550/26]

Under the Health (Pricing and Supply of Medical Goods) Act 2013, the HSE has statutory responsibility for decisions on the pricing and reimbursement of medicines and medical devices; therefore, the matter has been referred to the HSE for attention and direct reply to the Deputy.