Emer Higgins
Ceist:985. Deputy Emer Higgins asked the Minister for Health the support available to cancer patients who cannot pay their HSE bills; and if help through MABS is offered. [8979/21]
Amharc ar fhreagraWednesday, 17 February 2021
Ceisteanna (985)
Freagraí scríofa
Patient charges are an important element of the overall funding of health services in Ireland. These include out-patient charges, Emergency Department charges, daily in-patient charges and long-term stay charges.
As is the case for all patients, cancer patients can apply for a range of supports, including medical cards, and are assessed under the criteria applying to all applicants.
Similarly, access to support from the Money Advice and Budgeting Service (MABS) is available for anyone who is in debt, or at risk of going into debt.
Throughout the Covid-19 pandemic, the HSE’s National Cancer Control Programme, in conjunction with the Irish Cancer Society and Cancer Care West, has operated the Together 4 Cancer Concern support service. This service provides psychological and emotional support for cancer patients during the pandemic.