Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 23 February 2022
253. Deputy Emer Higgins asked the Minister for Health if an analysis of the total cost of cancer treatment has been calculated; if so, the total annual costs; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [10378/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraWhile the Department of Health has not conducted specific analysis on the cost of cancer treatment, this Government is acutely aware of the costs associated with a diagnosis of cancer, or indeed any long-term illness. It is for this reason that supports to ameliorate the costs of illness should be available to all rather than focused on those with particular conditions. This is the principle behind the transition to universal healthcare envisaged by Sláintecare, where people access the right services based on need and not ability to pay.
Under the Health Act 1970 (as amended), all persons, irrespective of illness or condition, accessing public in-patient (including day case) services in a public hospital are liable for the statutory in-patient daily charge, which is capped at a maximum of €800 in any period of 12 consecutive months. There are however exemptions from these charges for identified groups of people, including but not limited to people with full eligibility, that is medical card holders.
Medical cards are awarded without a financial assessment to all children under 18 years of age with a diagnosis of cancer, for a period of five years. Individuals with a terminal illness who have been certified by their treating Consultant as having a prognosis of 24 months or less to live are also now eligible for a medical card without a means assessment.
As is the case for all patients, cancer patients can apply for a range of supports, including medical cards, and they are assessed under the criteria applying to all applicants. 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. Indeed, the Irish Cancer Society has found that over 80% of those diagnosed with cancer who apply for a medical card are successful. In certain circumstances, the HSE may grant a medical card, even though an applicant exceeds the income threshold, where they face difficult financial circumstances, such as extra costs arising from an illness.
All patients require a responsive and compassionate health system to meet their medical needs. This is why this Government is continuing to work towards delivering an affordable, accessible and quality health service for all in line with the vision of Sláintecare.
