The Irish Cancer Society (ICS) is raising concerns that the use of debt collectors by the Health Service Executive (HSE) is causing patients added distress.
The ICS says it has seen a 36% increase in the number of people seeking financial support over the last 3 years.
The cancer charity also says some hospitals are now charging people €75 each time they receive chemotherapy treatment.
The charity says it is worried that some people with cancer may stop getting treatment because of the financial burden.
'A step too far'
Chief Executive, John McCormack, says patients are already dealing with the added costs of items such as transport, parking and heating - and this €75 charge is a step too far.
"This is the straw that could break the camel's back because there are a lot of other charges, additional costs, that people who go through a cancer journey have to face. But in many cases they won't be working, particularly if they are self employed. They may well have no insurance and no sick pay scheme of any sort," he said.
Kathleen O'Meara is the Head of Advocacy and Communications at the ICS.
