One in four patients forced to choose food and heat over health

Averil Power said: "It's shocking that people are left with no choice but to prioritise other costs like heating and eating above paying for medical appointments.” 

A “shocking” one in four people had to choose health bills or food and heat with young people aged 18 to 24 the most affected, the Irish Cancer Society has warned.

The double impact of financial fears and pressure on the health system is putting barriers in front of many vulnerable patients.