Fianna Fáil TD for Roscommon-Galway Eugene Murphy has slammed the HSE decision to not automatically award medical cards to all cancer patients.
Deputy Murphy said the news has come as a devastating blow to cancer patients who are already under extreme pressure.
Deputy Murphy was speaking following a reply to a Fianna Fáil Parliamentary Question posed to Minister for Health Simon Harris about proposals to automatically award medical cards to people who receive a cancer diagnosis.
“At present, medical cards are automatically awarded to children and adolescents under the age of 18 who are given a cancer diagnosis,” Deputy Murphy said. “There was a genuine expectation among cancer patients and support organisations that, following this review, this would be extended to all those who receive a cancer diagnosis.
“This is totally unacceptable. I am dealing with many people who have a cancer diagnosis and they are under extreme pressure and strain. The last thing they need is a battle on their hands to fight for a medical card.
“I am calling on Minister Harris to take action on this matter. A directive from the Government should be given to ensure that all patients who receive a cancer diagnosis are awarded a medical card.”
