Catherine Byrne (Dublin South Central, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

On behalf of the Minister, Deputy Harris, I thank the Deputy for the opportunity to address the issue of supports provided to breast cancer survivors. The provision of wigs and hairpieces by the HSE to patients who are being or have been treated for cancer and other illnesses is operated by means of a grant voucher system administered by the community healthcare organisations, CHOs. Patients can select their preferred wig or hairpiece, and the HSE refunds the service user or service provider up to the value of the voucher issued. The Minister became aware, through media reports on 30 June, of the HSE's intention to introduce revised arrangements for the provision of supports to the patients in question. I understand that the HSE's objective was to develop more equitable arrangements for the provision of such products and to extend these supports to a broader cohort of patients. The HSE established a working group to undertake a full review of the operation of this service and develop national guidelines to ensure uniformity of approach in the provision of these products at local CHO level. This was part of a wider community-funded schemes service-improvement programme. The guidelines were developed by the HSE on an overall cost-neutral basis. This would have meant gains in some areas and reductions in others.

While the Minister understands that the health service is working with a range of stakeholders, most importantly patients, to try to improve the supports throughout the country, this cannot take place before plans are put in place to ensure there is no hardship or reduction of supports for patients who are already receiving a particular level of service. Neither the Department nor the Minister for Health were involved or consulted in the course of this process. At the Minister's request, the HSE has deferred the introduction of the proposed changes. He has asked the HSE to re-examine the matter with a view to devising a plan that will achieve an equitable outcome but not lessen the level of provision for patients who are already coping with a very serious illness. The HSE has confirmed to the Department of Health that it has deferred changes to its guidelines pending further review and a consultation process, which will include engagement with the Department of Health, suppliers, patient groups and other stakeholders.

I assure patients and Deputies that anyone receiving post-mastectomy products, or wigs or hairpieces, will continue to receive the same level of support. It is essential that such patients not be subjected to any additional worry or stress at what is a very difficult time for them and their families. I cannot give the Deputy any details on what will emerge from the review but I will ensure that the Deputy receives a full reply from the Minister as soon as I speak to him, which will be tomorrow.

Everything has been put back where it was. Nothing is happening and everything has been deferred until a proper system and plan can be put in place. As a woman, I was very concerned when I heard what had happened. I know that other Deputies were too. Deputy Tom Neville and others on this side of the House were really struck by the fact that that this had gone on and been broadcast and that people had been sent letters. It caused huge strain for patients who were already in difficult circumstances, for which we apologise. It was terrible that it happened.

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