Breast cancer patients denied medical cards forced to 'choose between health and financial stability'
Amanda Dragons Claire And Sharon Limerick Sweeney, Jordan, Doran Right,
A group of breast cancer survivors in Limerick have called on politicians to lobby for patients who were refused a medical card and should not have to “choose between their health and financial stability”.
The Limerick Dragons, a breast cancer survivors sports group, asked local politicians to pledge their support at government level after many of its members were refused a medical card while undergoing treatment.
According to the group, breast cancer patients face financial burdens that jeopardise their ability to receive critical medical treatments, follow-up care, and mental health support.
A medical card would alleviate these challenges by covering costs related to medications, therapy, diagnostics, as well as other necessary health services.
Limerick Dragons’ public relations officer, Amanda Jordan, was diagnosed with breast cancer on September 1, 2021.
She got a mastectomy in September 2021, then went back to the hospital for a second operation on November 9 — her birthday.
Ms Jordan started chemotherapy in January 2022, then radiation. She has been on hormone tablets for five years.
Despite the fact she was undergoing treatment, she was denied a medical card.
"I have issues after chemo that I need meds for, I have something called peripheral neuropathy in my feet and lips, that’s damage caused to the nerves from chemo,” Ms Jordan recalled.
Once a person goes through treatment, they get a prosthetic breast and need a prosthesis bra.
On average, a prosthesis cost €200 and a bra costs €70.
“I also went into menopause, which the doctor is trying to treat with meds, I have a drug refund scheme so the most I pay each month is €80.
"Prosthetic breast and bras are all quite expensive, but are free on medical card,” she said.
There is an allowance for medical card holders towards post-mastectomy bras every year, and towards up to two prostheses every second year.
“Breast cancer patients should not have to choose between their health and their financial stability.
"A medical card would provide vital support, allowing patients to focus on healing without the added stress of medical bills,” added Ms Jordan.
On Monday, Limerick Dragons will be holding a lobbying event in Limerick Civic Trust a No 1 Pery Square at 10am to discuss the issue.