We have a problem. I am deeply concerned that our health service is falling behind when it comes to access to advanced cancer treatments, modern medicine and orphan drugs. Science innovation, as the Taoiseach knows, is moving at an extraordinary pace. New oncology medicines are helping people to live longer and survive cancer. In the context of diseases that once involved devastating outcomes, people now retain a far better quality of life after treatment. However, in Ireland, access depends far too often on whether people have private health insurance. This is not the health system we want. It is not the health system Sláintecare envisioned either. We are increasingly seeing a two-tier system in cancer care. If people have private cover, they can often access new treatments earlier. On the other hand, those who rely on the public system may face delays and fewer options. I accept that more money is going into access to drugs than ever before. However, the next cancer strategy has to keep pace with science. The reimbursement schemes have to improve.

Sentiment score: -0.07