It is a big deal but is it a good one? - Drug savings agreement

THE new drug savings agreement between the State and the pharmaceutical industry is certainly a big deal but is it a good deal?

It has been hailed on both sides as good for both the taxpayer and for patients but that remains to be seen. It has also been welcomed by the Irish Pharmacy Union (IPU), which represents community pharmacists around the country.

Under the agreement, the Government will save in excess of €750 million over four years. That is the promise and the positive spin being put on the deal but caution should be observed with such figures, as the last agreement was due to deliver €400m in savings but has still to be fully quantified.