Muscular dystrophy sufferers plea for physio service

Dozens of Irish people who suffer from a muscle-wasting disease have no access to physiotherapists, it was claimed today.

Muscular Dystrophy Ireland (MDI) said the quality of life of 97 of its 550 members was being severely affected because no physiotherapy services were currently available to them.

MDI director Joe T Mooney told a press conference: “There are many difficulties accessing community services such as physiotherapy, occupational therapy, personal assistance and counselling.

“It is essential to increase Government funding and availability of these services for individual members and their families who are affected.”

MDI also claims that 240 of its members who receive intermittent physiotherapy require a more regular service.

The group also called for an additional “cost of disability” payment of €40 per week for all people with disabilities.

“It is recognised nationally and internationally that people with disabilities incur many extra costs such as food, heating and clothing as a result of their disability,” said Mr Mooney.

MDI also demanded the recruitment of more consultant geneticists as the Republic of Ireland has fewer than the North.

“This leads to longer waiting lists to access genetic testing and counselling services,” added Mr Mooney.

MDI is planning a national campaign to raise awareness, knowledge and understanding about the muscular dystrophy condition.