THE Minister for Health, Mr Noonan, has signed the legislation which will provide free health care for Hepatitis C sufferers. The Health (Amendment) Act 1996 comes into operation from September 23rd.
According to a statement from the Department of Health, more than 1,300 people will be eligible for free services under the new law including those who contracted Hepatitis C directly or indirectly through the use of Anti-D, or through other blood products or blood transfusion. The services will not be means-tested.
Ms Jane O'Brien, spokeswoman for Positive Action, the group representing women infected through Anti-D, said they were "delighted" the service was finally being introduced 18 months after the first women were identified as being infected. Until now the women have been paying their own GP bills, dental bills and for other support services. Mr Noonan had agreed to introduce the health care services last December.
Ms O'Brien said the Minister had given assurances to Positive Action, which represents 980 women, that the health boards would receive whatever financial resources were necessary to provide services to Hepatitis C sufferers.
She said it was significant that all medical conditions would be covered, and once accepted a person would be covered for life.
The services to be provided free of charge are GP, medical and surgical services, prescribed drugs, medicines and medical and surgical appliances, home nursing, home help and counselling services. Dental, ophthalmic and aural services and appliances are also covered.
Each health board has appointed a liaison officer to ensure the "smooth delivery of the services". Application forms are available from health boards.