The Department of Health has announced plans to ensure that all women receive the same level of allowance for post-mastectomy and hair loss products after cancer-related treatment, following funding allocations of €1 million for 2024 and €2 million for 2025.
There will be no reduction to the current service provided to anyone and access is provided regardless of medical card eligibility or home location in Ireland.
Announcing the plans at the time, then-Minister for Health Stephen Donnelly said: “I recognise the challenges faced by many women during and after cancer treatment. I know that these products have an important role in the lives of many people and that reassurance regarding access to them is very much necessary.
“I’m therefore very happy to announce that the HSE has commenced a plan to ensure that access to these products is fair for all women in Ireland who have undergone cancer-related treatment.”
Accessing post-mastectomy and hair loss products: A woman goes to a HSE approved supplier and purchases a product. Any cost up to the allowance is discounted from the cost paid. If the cost of the product is below or at the level of the allowance, the woman pays nothing. If it is higher, she pays the difference. There is a higher allowance for those who have undergone a double mastectomy. After the product has been supplied to the woman, the supplier makes a claim to the HSE for reimbursement.
