Billy Caldwell has this morning been granted NHS funding for his private medicinal cannabis prescription for four weeks as work continues to find a permanent solution.
Billy, 15, from Co Tyrone, who suffers from severe epilepsy, was assessed by the specialist RESCAS panel investigating the use of medical cannabis in extreme cases.
And today as he and his mum Charlotte woke to just three more days of prescribed medication available to them, Health Minister Robin Swann announced the Health and Social Care Board Belfast would pay for the next invoice.
The Minister confirmed the HSCB has been paying for Billy's medication as an interim arrangement and Belfast Live understands that agreement dates back to June.
Today's move by the Health Minister means she will have to wait for a long term solution, but Mr Swann is urging action to bring the Caldwell's agony to an end.
Mr Swann acknowledged that the RESCAS panel recommended that Billy's medication would not be discontinued.
He said: "During the course of the now concluded court proceedings, the cost of Billy’s current medicinal cannabis was met by the HSC Board.
"I can confirm that this interim arrangement will not be halted as a result of the court case ending.
"The HSCB will pay the most recent invoice for the medication, which should provide a further four weeks of therapy.
"I hope that this continuation of the interim arrangement will help provide the space to achieve a longer term and sustainable solution, in line with RESCAS advice.
"I am assured however that all of the advice received from RESCAS is currently being carefully considered in order to reach a solution for Billy to support his long term safety and wellbeing.
"I very much hope that the RESCAS process will lead to a sustainable solution, providing Billy with the care and support he needs.
"I am also assured that every effort will be made to enable Billy’s care to be continued within the health service in line with RESCAS advice."
Charlotte said: "Billy has now being granted NHS funding for the medicine that has transformed his life and a commitment to put in place shared care arrangements that will ensue that he is properly looked after.
"This is the news we have waited for for so long. Billy and I should never have had to endure this torturous ordeal but I am delighted we have this news and this hope.
"I am grateful to Matt Hancock for enabling Billy to have access to RESCAS and to those who now have committed to implementing its key recommendation, that Billy’s NHS prescription is back where it should be."
