Medical card for cancer patients under 18 provides relief for parents – Butler

Fine Gael TD for Meath West, Ray Butler, has welcomed the confirmation from the Minister for Health, Leo Varadkar TD that children under 18 with a cancer diagnosis will be issued with a medical card for five years.

“Minister Varadkar yesterday confirmed that children under 18 with a cancer diagnosis will be issued with a medical card for five years. It will also be retrospective so that any child who has had a cancer diagnosis in the past five years will also be entitled to a medical card.

“The stress and devastation of dealing with the cancer diagnosis of a child is difficult enough for any family without having to worry about access to health care or paying for medication. This has been an issue I have highlighted to the Minister on a number of occasions.

“Last November the HSE took a number of steps to improve the operation of the medical card system, particularly for people with significant medical needs. Amongst the steps announced was the establishment of a Clinical Advisory Group who made the recommendation to introduce this relief.

“This change is in effect from today (Wednesday). I look forward to the HSE implementing it in an efficient and sensitive manner.

“Today is also the day that free GP care for under sixes comes into effect. Over 79,000 children have been signed up already with 84% of doctors across the country registered to take part.”