paying for treatment

I'm not sure I understand. It's very costly privately but not if you are going public . My health insurance pays the hospital direct but we get a copy of the costs and its very very expensive

Hi Sheila
I have health insurance that covered everything, as does nearly other health insurers as far as I'm aware. Is there a particular reason why you think you might have to pay for treatment yourself? Also, if you haven't done so yet, you should apply for a medical card - if you get one it covers treatment also.

Best of luck to you.

Hi Sheila,
As encee suggests, it's a good idea to apply for a Medical Card. It is means tested, but apply anyway. If you are below the threshold, you will be granted a Card.

If you are above the threshold, apply anyway. You WILL be declined - that's the job of the "gatekeepers" - to filter out those above the limit.

Once declined, you will need to appeal that decision, on the basis of Cancer diagnosis. The granting of this discretionary Medical card is not guaranteed, but, if granted may save you a lot of money and hassle.

You lose nothing by applying.

If you haven't already done so, apply for a Drugs Repayment Card. You local pharmacy will sort this out for you. It's value is limited, due to the high monthly threshold, but get it anyway - no means test...everyone is entitled to this one.