Health Minister Simon Harris speaking about the supports that cancer patients need to move on with their lives after getting the all clear. Image: Sasko Lazarov/Photocall Ireland Health Minister Simon Harris speaking about the supports that cancer patients need to move on with their lives after getting the all clear.
This is despite medical professionals stating that patients often require psychological help and counselling, have difficulties returning to work, experience relationship difficulties, as well as fertility and sexual difficulties when treatment has ceased. He admitted that the health service, while giving excellent medical cancer treatment, has fallen short in giving survivors proper care plans to move forward with their lives.Harris said he attended a cancer support group for men where he heard their stories about how they were facing difficulties beyond the traditional medical issues.
He said once the working group sets out the supports that are needed, services should be offered in the community, not in a hospital setting.