Man with rare illness wants HSE to pay for German care

A MAN left in a wheelchair as a result of a rare illness is seeking court orders requiring the HSE to pay for medical treatment he is receiving in Germany, which he cannot get in Ireland.

Paul Flood, aged 55, was left quadriplegic and lost motor function after developing a rare genetic condition that effects his brain stem. He has limited use of his arms and hands and requires regular blood monitoring.

He was diagnosed with the condition after being rushed to hospital while on holiday in Germany in 2002. Since then Mr Flood, who previously worked in media, has received medical treatment in Germany, paid for by the HSE.

However, on November 25 last, he was informed in a letter from the HSE that the funding was to be cut by 83%.

The High Court heard the HSE also informed Mr Flood it is to provide e2,500 over a three-month period towards his medical costs. The cost of the services he receives in Germany, which allows him to live semi-independently, is €60,000-€75,000 per year.

Mr Flood, with addresses at Rivercourt, Camac Close, Dublin 8 and Lippestrasse, Dusseldorf, has been left upset and distressed by the decision. The HSE has not given any rationale for its decision, it is claimed.

The court also heard that doctors in Germany have also expressed their concerns, as it means Mr Flood is not covered in an emergency.

Leave to bring the proceedings was granted on an ex-parte (one side only) basis by Mr Justice Michael Peart, who made the matter returnable to January.