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New HSE Allowances for Women Post-Mastectomy
The HSE Breast-Care Allowances Are Now Fairer and More Generous Than Ever
The HSE Breast-Care Allowances Are Now Fairer and More Generous Than Ever
We’re delighted to share that the HSE has introduced new, standardised allowances for breast-care products, and they’re better than ever. These updated allowances came into effect in January 2025 and are now available to all women in Ireland who have undergone surgery due to breast cancer, regardless of medical card status or where they live.
At Roches, we know how important it is for women to feel supported, physically, emotionally and financially after a breast cancer diagnosis. Access to well-fitting prostheses, mastectomy bras and swimwear isn’t just about comfort or appearance; it’s about dignity, confidence and quality of life. That’s why we’re so pleased that the HSE has listened to feedback and now offers an equal, fair and enhanced level of support for all eligible women across the country.
Why This Matters
For years, breast-care entitlements from the HSE varied depending on where a woman lived and if she had a medical card or not. Allowances were inconsistent across different CHO (Community Health Organisation) areas, and in many cases, they fell short of what women needed. There was great confusion and inequality.
In 2024, the HSE attempted to standardise the system. However, the initial rollout removed some essential items from the scheme and offered lower values than before, leaving many women worse off. This understandably caused a national outcry. Thankfully, after a strong public response and advocacy from patients, suppliers and support groups, the Minister for Health stepped in and announced a full reversal of the proposed cuts. The HSE went back to the drawing board and the outcome has been worth the wait.
What’s Included in the New HSE Allowances?
As of January 2025, the standardised breast-care allowance provides generous support for essential specialist items. The updated entitlements are as follows:
€400 per year towards 1 breast prosthesis and 2 mastectomy bras. (€650 per year for women who have had a double mastectomy)
€150 per year for 1 mastectomy swimsuit and 1 swim prosthesis (€215 per year for women post-double mastectomy requiring)
This means that every woman in Ireland now receives the same level of support, regardless of medical card status or location.
Who Is Eligible?
You are eligible for the new allowances if you are living in Ireland and have had surgery related to breast cancer, such as a unilateral or bilateral mastectomy, therefore requiring a breast prosthesis. You do not need a medical card, the new scheme is for every woman, regardless of health cover.
How to Claim the Allowance
To avail of your entitlement, you’ll need a prescription or letter from your GP or consultant. This letter should confirm that you’ve had breast surgery and require 1 prosthesis, 2 mastectomy bras, 1 swimsuit & 1 swim prosthesis. It should clearly state these items & quantities.
Once you have your prescription, book your appointment and bring the prescription in with you. We’ll help you select the right products, and take care of the paperwork on your behalf. You’ll only need to pay the difference, if any, between the value of the products you choose and your HSE allowance.
For returning clients who are happy with previous items so do not need an appointment, we can easily reorder for you over the phone or by email, just get in touch and we’ll sort the rest.
Why Choose Roches?
At Roches, we’ve been supporting women through breast cancer recovery for over a decade. We offer private, compassionate fittings for prostheses, bras and swimwear, tailored to your body, lifestyle and treatment journey. Our team understands the sensitive nature of these fittings and will always take the time to ensure you feel comfortable and confident with your choices.
We’re proud to be a HSE accredited provider and are fully up to date with the new 2025 allowances. Whether you’re newly post-op or returning for an annual update, we’re here to make the process simple, supportive and stress-free.
The New HSE Allowances In Summary
The new HSE allowances for breast-care products, introduced in January 2025, are a major step forward in providing fair, accessible and generous support for women across Ireland. Whether you need a new prosthesis, mastectomy bras, or swimwear that suits your shape, the HSE now offers consistent funding, and we at Roches are here to help you every step of the way.
For more inforation on allowances please refer to our financial assistance page.