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MMP plan to move all HP ONS to list B – IrSPEN & INDI strongly oppose

IrSPEN and INDI Oppose MMP Plan to Restrict Access to High-Protein ONS
 
IrSPEN, the Irish Nutrition and Dietetic Institute (INDI), and leading clinical experts have strongly opposed a new policy proposal from the HSE’s Medicines Management Programme (MMP) that would reclassify all high-protein oral nutritional supplements (ONS) to List B, making them available by approval only under the Primary Care Reimbursement Scheme.
 
If implemented, this policy would require prescribers to complete a case-by-case online approval process, effectively delaying or denying access to first-line nutritional care for older patients, those with cancer or chronic disease, and others recovering from illness—all of whom require higher protein intakes for recovery and improved outcomes.
 
IrSPEN and INDI have issued a joint position statement, supported by clinicians, academic experts, and professional organisations, calling for:
  • Immediate suspension of the proposed policy
  • An independent, expert-led review of its clinical and cost implications
 
We are inviting all healthcare professionals and organisations who share our concerns to lend their support. If you agree with the position taken, please complete the form below to express your support and be added as a signatory to the joint statement. 
 
Become a Signatory – sign up your support for the change to HP ONS to be suspended
 
 
We also encourage you to consider writing directly to the MMP and the Minister of Health to express your professional concern—on behalf of both your patients and your service—about the implications of this policy if allowed to proceed.
 
“This policy reverses progress made in recognising the critical role of protein intake in malnutrition care. It threatens to compromise clinical outcomes and burden healthcare services further.”
– IrSPEN Management Committee