Kelleher alarmed by cancer drugs delay

Published on: 27 May 2016


Fianna Fáil Health spokesperson Billy Kelleher has expressed alarm at revelations that cancer patients are being delayed access to life saving medication.  Reports this morning suggest that the failure of the HSE’s drugs group to meet to approve the drug is to blame for the delays.

Deputy Kelleher commented, “The reports this morning are extremely worrying and must be acted upon as a matter of urgency.  These drugs could be the difference between life and death for these patients and the failure of the HSE group to meet to approve them is simply not acceptable.

“Cancer specialists have highlighted how important these drugs are in the fight against the disease, and any delays in treatment could have devastating knock on effects for cancer patients.

“These drugs have been found to be safe and cost-effective and are used in many other European countries, so the fact that the HSE is dragging its feet in approving them is baffling.

“It’s not good enough that medication that can save lives is being denied.  I am urging Minister Harris to examine this situation and ensure that these drugs are approved without delay”.

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