A new report published recently reveals that 60 per cent of individuals in Ireland living with Crohn’s disease and colitis experience financial difficulties, highlighting the significant financial burden associated with these conditions. Concerningly, because of costs involved with accessing medical treatment, 47 per cent of people have avoided seeking necessary medical care. The ‘Uncovering the Hidden Cost of Crohn’s and Colitis’ report was launched by Crohn’s and Colitis Ireland (CCI), in partnership with Johnson & Johnson Ireland.
The report provides insight into the challenges faced people living with Crohn’s disease and colitis in Ireland and identifies the key areas of improvement in care. The findings revealed that direct medical costs are the most significant financial challenge. People living with these incurable conditions spend approximately €3,252 annually to manage their disease, which includes treatment and dietary needs. On average, this cohort spends a minimum of 33 hours a year accessing healthcare services, including travelling to and attending appointments.
Indirect costs also significantly impact patients’ overall financial stability.
- 62 per cent reported that taking time off work due to their condition has negatively affected their financial situation to some or a great extent.
- 82 per cent of respondents said that they missed work or lost wages as a result of their condition, while 86 per cent reported they have attended work when they have needed to take time off work.
- Costs associated with attending medical appointments also play a significant role in financial burden, with 85 per cent citing mileage and travel costs, 83 per cent citing parking fees, 62 per cent citing overnight stays for medical appointments, and 49 per cent citing childcare fees.
Amy Kelly, Chief Operations Officer at Crohn’s and Colitis Ireland, said: “These findings show the true extent of the challenges faced when diagnosed with Crohn’s disease and colitis, including the financial burden inflicted. However, it’s not just about medical bills, it’s about lost wages, dietary adjustments and the constant struggle to access the care that people desperately need.
“We urge the Government to listen to the needs of the community and to improve access to care in Ireland. This includes including Crohn’s disease and colitis in the Chronic Disease Management Programme and expanding medical card eligibility, ensuring equitable access to essential medical care. This inclusion would provide free, structured care, potentially reducing patients’ out-of-pocket healthcare expenses through fewer emergency room visits, hospital admissions, and lower medication costs.”
While the majority of people living with Crohn’s disease and colitis have qualified for the drugs payment scheme (74 per cent), accessing broader support remains a challenge. Thirty-nine per cent expressed difficulty in seeing a GP, and qualifying for a medical card or GP visit card is proving to be difficult. Only 29 per cent of people with Crohn’s disease and colitis have a medical card, and only 13 per cent have qualified for a GP visit card, frequently denied due to these conditions not automatically meeting the eligibility criteria. An overwhelming 98 per cent believe Crohn’s disease and colitis should automatically qualify individuals for additional support, underscoring the urgent need for policy reform.
Painting an even more concerning picture is that over a quarter of respondents (26 per cent) reported delaying taking their medication to make it last longer due to the costs involved.
Dr Orlaith Kelly, Consultant Gastroenterologist, Connolly Hospital, Dublin, said: “It’s deeply concerning that this report reveals so many people are delaying or skipping essential treatment due to cost, as this negatively impacts how they manage their condition. As a consultant gastroenterologist, I see first-hand
the immense challenges people living with Crohn’s disease and colitis face, not only with their health but also with the financial and emotional burden of managing their condition. This research underscores the urgent need for a more comprehensive approach to care in Ireland, one that ensures financial barriers do not prevent patients from receiving the treatment they desperately need to manage their condition effectively.”
Michaela Hagenhofer, General Manager, Commercial Operations at Johnson & Johnson, added: “This report lays bare the reality of the impact Crohn’s disease and colitis can have on a person’s overall quality of life and provides a critical insight into the supports needed to improve their wellbeing. It’s vital that the voices of the community are heard and acted upon to ensure that care and support are tailored to their specific needs. We’re committed to supporting CCI and the entire community in this important campaign to improve the lives of people with these conditions in Ireland.”
