Scanlon calls for charge to be axed

FIANNA Fáil TD for Sligo-Leitrim Eamon Scanlon (pictured) has called on the Health Minister to scrap a new charge brought in for venesection for haemochromatosis patients.

The procedure, which involves the removal of a pint of blood, is the only way to treat the condition. However, sufferers who do not qualify for a medical card are now being forced to pay €80 per treatment.

Deputy Scanlon said, “The introduction of a fee for this procedure is completely absurd.

“Venesection is not an option for haemochromatosis patients – if they don’t undertake the procedure they risk an iron overload in their blood, which can damage their liver.

“Some people need to have the treatment once or twice a year, while others have to get it done on a more regular basis. This could end up costing patients hundreds of euro a year.

“Patients who are not eligible for a medical card and cannot afford to pay this new fee are being put at serious risk.

“I have been contacted by people who say they will be unable to pay for the procedure and are deciding to skip it. This is a very serious situation

I am calling on Minister Harris to remove this charge. It is unfair and discriminatory and needs to be scrapped with immediate effect”.