The health service could need another multi-million euro bailout before the end of the year.

A range of new services reportedly mean the original budget of over €13bn won't be enough to cover the costs.

Among this year's outgoings are efforts to lower the cost of drugs and reduce waiting lists, as well as the Fair Deal Scheme which covers nursing home care.

But according to the Sunday Business Post, Health Minister Leo Varadkar, says he'll need more money or patients may be facing cutbacks.

The Oireachtas will have to vote in favour of the supplementary budget - which could total almost €700m.

Last week HSE boss Tony O'Brien outlined plans to penalise individual hospitals who overspend.