Jennifer Whitmore (Wicklow, Social Democrats)
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632. To ask the Minister for Health if alternative treatments provided to cancer patients are currently deemed essential; if not, if this will be reconsidered considering the mental and physical benefits offered to those suffering from a variety of illnesses; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43503/20]

Stephen Donnelly (Wicklow, Fianna Fail)
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The HSE's National Cancer Control Programme (NCCP) advise that they would distinguish between 'alternative' treatments and 'complimentary' treatments. Generally, alternative treatments are not advised as they imply non-standard treatments. Complementary treatments can be supported under advice from the patient's oncology team.

Complementary therapies are offered in some cancer centres and in many community cancer support centres. It is important that practitioners are appropriately qualified and registered.

Psycho-oncology and social work services are available to patients in cancer centres during their cancer treatment. Community cancer support centres offer support and information to patients who have completed active treatment. This can cover a range of services, such as provision of information, peer support, counselling, physical activity and survivorship programmes.

Recognising the distress of cancer patients and their families during this time, a virtual psycho-oncology service (Together 4 Cancer Concern) was developed by the National Cancer Control Programme in conjunction with the Irish Cancer and Cancer Care West. It can be accessed through the Irish Cancer Society support line and a full range of psychological support is available.