Irish Cancer Society says Government must act now to stop financial crisis for cancer patients
Welcoming a Social Democrats’ motion on the Real Cost of Cancer in the Dáil today, Irish Cancer Society Director of Advocacy Rachel Morrogh said: “For too long the punishing burden the State places on some cancer patients has been ignored. We’re grateful that the Social Democrats and many TDs across the Dáil chamber gave voice to the fears of patients at what can be the most vulnerable stage of their lives.”
The Irish Cancer Society’s Real Cost of Cancer report showed increased expenditure for cancer patients after a diagnosis was €756 a month on average, at a time when the average loss in income was €1,500. Meanwhile, the estimated cost of childhood cancer is €15,300 a year to families.
At a time of rapidly rising inflation, we believe the real cost of cancer is only increasing, and cancer patients are now facing the sharp end of the stick. The Government, Department of Health and HSE can act to address this, but have dragged their heels for years. We’re pleased that the Government did not oppose this morning’s motion but hand-wringing isn’t enough; action is the only thing that will bring about change for patients.
The Society said there are three things that must happen to reverse the financial crisis patients are facing, and to instill a greater culture of compassion in our health services:
- The use of debt collectors to chase payment from cancer patients needs to end, and we appeal to the Minister to direct the HSE to make this change;
- Government must abolish the unfair inpatient charge, levied on patients without a medical card or private health insurance for cancer treatment sessions;
- The HSE must publish its review of car parking charges at public hospitals, and Government must source the funding required to implement reductions in charges and flexible passes, instead of placing the burden on individual hospitals.
Ms Morrogh added: “We have been steadfast in calling for an end to these punitive practices, but successive Governments have failed to prioritise this. It is not too late and we urge Government to display compassion and support patients who are often at a physical, emotional and financial low.
“While these actions will not eliminate the financial burden of cancer, they are immediate steps that would make a real difference to the lives of cancer patients.”
Anyone seeking advice on or access to supports and resources provided by the Irish Cancer Society can contact its Freephone Support Line on 1800 200 700 and SupportLine@IrishCancer.ie.
