HSE scraps changes to grants for cancer patients

The HSE has shelved plans to introduce a new scheme to cover grants for mastectomy prosthetics and wigs for cancer patients.

The plan, which would have altered the levels of grant funding available for post- mastectomy products and wigs/hairpieces, sparked an outcry among retailers who provide the products to patients.

It was initially planned to introduce the changes a month ago, but the proposal had sparked an angry response from Health Minister Simon Harris, who had been unaware of the move.