SINN Féin Health spokesperson Sandra Duffy has urged benefits officials to remove barriers faced by women injured by mesh when applying for the Personal Independence Payment (PIP).
Speaking after the party had a ‘constructive meeting’ with PIP, Department of Work and Pensions and Department of Health officials today along with survivor Mary McLaughlin from Mesh Ireland, Cllr Duffy said:
“Today our party met with officials to express concern at the difficulties many women injured by mesh are encountering when applying for PIP.
“Their injuries and symptoms are complex and easily misunderstood by an assessor with no prior knowledge.
“Many patients may not have a comprehensive medical paper trail and although referred for a medical re-assessment, are still waiting up to two years for an appointment.
“These and other barriers to fair assessments, puts women injured by mesh at risk of not getting the support to which they are entitled.
“The officials were all visibly moved to hear Mary’s personal journey of injury and ill health caused by mesh and have agreed to work together to increase awareness among PIP assessors and decision makers.
“Our party has agreed to meet again and share any insights that may help assessors deal fairly with PIP applications by women injured by mesh to ensure they receive their full entitlement,” she added.
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