Question to the Minister for Health (Dr. James Reilly, TD)
For WRITTEN ANSWER on 14/05/2014
To ask the Minister for Health the reason patients with medical cards in counties Cork and Kerry, who have successfully completed treatment for breast cancer, only receive a supply of prosthesis and special underwear for support every two years when patients in other areas receive a yearly supply; and if he will make a statement on the matter. – Jerry Buttimer T.D.
REPLY
All women who have had breast cancer surgery are entitled to their first prosthesis and two bras free of charge. A set policy is not in place in regard to the longer-term provision of bras to post-mastectomy patients who hold medical cards.
A national group has recently been established in the HSE to review practices in the area of aids and appliances. As part of this work, it will develop a national policy on the provision of prosthesis bras, as well as hairpieces, for cancer patients. It is anticipated that the Group will complete its work in the first half of 2015.