Michael McGrath (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)
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528. To ask the Minister for Health to outline his views on the campaign of an organisation (details supplied) to abolish inpatient and inpatient day case charges for cancer patients; the policy on this issue; the steps he plans to take in this regard; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [44755/18]

Simon Harris (Wicklow, Fine Gael)
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Significant progress has been made over a number of years in dealing with cancer treatment with significantly improving survival rates in Ireland. The National Cancer Strategy 2017-2026 aims to build on the progress already made, with improved cancer prevention, diagnostics, treatment and aftercare support. The Irish Cancer Society made a significant input into the drawing up of the Strategy and plays a very positive role in supporting people affected by cancer.

Whilst the sentiment behind the Society's campaign in relation to hospital charges is appreciated, making exemptions to these charges on the basis of illness or treatments risks creating inequity within the system.

The statutory co-payment which is capped at a level that is not large relative to the true cost of providing hospital services, represents an important contribution towards hospitals' operating costs. While the overall charges are subject to ongoing review their abolition would have significant financial implications.

In Budget 2019 the Government prioritised the extension of the GP Visit Card income thresholds, reduction in the Drug Payment Scheme monthly threshold and reduction in the prescription charges for those with a medical card over 70 years. The Sláintecare Implementation Strategy commits to consider all existing charges in the context of the annual budgetary process and this will allow for priorities to be determined in reviewing and considering the scope for reduction in charges.