Irish Cancer Society discusses concerns of cancer community with Health Minister

Minister assures patients that critical cancer care will continue

The CEO of the Irish Cancer Society, Averil Power, met today with the Minister for Health, Simon Harris, to discuss the concerns and needs of those affected by cancer during the coronavirus pandemic.

Averil Power said, “I met with the Minister today by video conference to discuss our concerns for the cancer community during the coronavirus pandemic and also to update him on the Irish Cancer Society’s response to the crisis.

“I passed on concerns that we are hearing from our patient community via our Cancer Nurseline, our online support community and our extensive network of patients and survivors, particularly in relation to the impact of Covid19 on cancer treatment.

“The Minister assured me that while non-urgent care is being postponed, arrangements have been put in place to ensure that critical care continues to be provided. He said people whose symptoms need urgent investigation will be able to get them checked out and treatment, if urgent, will also be available. He said it is essential that anyone experiencing potential cancer symptoms like a lump or bleeding contacts their GP immediately.

“The Irish Cancer Society has detailed information available online at www.cancer.ie for people who are worried they may be showing signs of cancer.

“I welcomed the Minister’s reassurance that critical cancer care will continue to be provided and highlighted the need for clear communication with patients whose treatment has been deemed to be non-urgent and so postponed. The reasons for the delay need to be explained to them clearly and they need to be reassured that it won’t affect their long-term outcomes.

“As part of our response to the coronavirus pandemic, the Irish Cancer Society’s Support Line is open every day to help anyone worried or affected by cancer.

“For information on any cancer related issue, including concerns about coronavirus, advice on financial or employment matters or to arrange free cancer counselling, people can contact Freephone 1800 200 700 or log onto www.cancer.ie.

“The Irish Cancer Society’s night nursing and volunteer driving service are also still operating and we have started a new phone counselling service for people who can’t attend in-person counselling,” she concluded.