Dublin Fingal TD and Fine Gael Spokesperson on Climate Action has welcomed Government approval that will expand access to the medical card, benefiting those with a terminal illness.
Deputy Farrell said, “This marks and important and positive step in the healthcare services offered to those suffering from a terminal illness. Today’s decision will mean that individuals with a prognosis of up to 24 months will now be eligible, increasing this threshold from the previous qualification of a prognosis of up to 12 months.”
“The diagnosis of a terminal illness is sadly a reality that many families in our communities face every day. We cannot remove the stress and pain that this causes the individual and their loved ones, but we can seek to make compassion a common feature in our health system, making access to services as easy as possible is an important component of this.”
Deputy Farrell continued, “This decision will mean that patients across a wide range of specialities will benefit from the expanded access to medical cards. This includes neurology, oncology, cardiology and raspatory.”
“Today’s steps are a result of a long campaign led by patient advocates and builds on the work started by my colleague, Simon Harris, during his tenure as Minister for Health, as well as the fulfilment of pledges made in the Programme for Government.” Deputy Farrell added.