Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 9 September 2021
1440. Deputy Neale Richmond asked the Minister for Health if his attention has been drawn to the financial burden faced by those undergoing long-term cancer treatment; if he has taken steps to address the matter; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43062/21]
Amharc ar fhreagraPatient 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.
In accordance with the provisions of the Health Act 1970 (as amended), eligibility for a medical card is determined by the HSE. Every effort is made by the HSE, within the framework of the legislation, to support applicants in applying for a medical card and, in particular, to take full account of the difficult circumstances in the case of applicants who may be in excess of the income guidelines. It should be noted that, in certain circumstances, the HSE may exercise discretion and grant a medical card even though an applicant exceeds his or her income threshold, where he or she faces difficult financial circumstances, such as extra costs arising from an illness.
