Get the latest news from Manx.News

Health Minister confirms Translarna funding u-turn

Wed, 19 Oct 2016

The Department of Health and Social Care will fund a drug to help a local boy with a muscle-wasting condition.

Minister Kate Beecroft confirmed in this month's sitting of Tynwald that Translarna will be made available on the Isle of Man after agreeing a discounted rate for the treatment with NHS England.

Seven-year-old Finley Hesketh had previously been denied access to the drug, which could slow the progression of his Duchenne muscular dystrophy.

The Douglas South MHK reviewed the decision following her recent appointment to the role, and has already instructed her Department to open talks with a drug company.

The treatment costs around £180,000 per year, with Mrs Beecroft warning she will need to make savings in other areas to make the funds available.

Finley's family had been considering a move away from the Island, with Translarna available on the NHS in the UK.

The Health Minister will report back to Tynwald once talks with the drug company are complete.

---