New research reveals 20% of young people do not get medical care due to cost

Key findings of the research include:

*Of those surveyed who felt their health was less than good, 59% were specifically concerned or very concerned about their physical health.

*Of those surveyed who felt their health was less than good, 52% were specifically concerned or very concerned about their weight/diet.

*Of those surveyed who felt their health was less than good, 23% were specifically concerned or very concerned about their mental health.

*69% of those surveyed had been to the doctor in the past year.

*20% have not attended the doctor when sick due to financial costs.

*46% of those surveyed did not have any health insurance.

“We are concerned about the findings of this survey which found that almost 20% of respondents stated they had not attended the doctor when they were sick due to the financial costs. This is a cause for concern and it would be important that the Government review and enhance eligibility criteria for medical cards given this finding that such large numbers of young people between 18 and 25 years are not going to the doctor because they cannot afford it”, stated James Doorley, Assistant Director at NYCI.

He continues: “While our survey suggests that the health and well-being of many young people is good, sizeable minorities are experiencing real and worrying problems related to overweight and obesity, mental health problems, self-esteem, life satisfaction, substance misuse and bullying. This is in light of the fact that we found that up to 59%, 52% and 23% of respondents who felt their health was less than good were either very concerned or concerned about their physical health, weight/diet and mental health. Therefore it is vital that the Government deliver on their plans and strategies to address obesity and mental health difficulties.”

In light of these results NYCI recommends that:

• Vision for Change and Reach Out policy documents should be fully implemented and funded.

• The NOSP receives increased funding to increase suicide prevention services and resources.

• Resource and implement the recommendations of the National Taskforce on Obesity 2005.

• Implement the commitment in the Programme for Government to double the income threshold limits for the full medical card.

• Double the income threshold limits for the parents of children under 6 years and for families with children and young people aged 7-17.

• Raise the income thresholds so that more people on lower incomes can qualify for a medical card so that no one is prevented from seeing a doctor because of cost.

ENDS

For further information, please contact Clodagh O’Brien, Communications Officer at the NYCI on 087 781 4903 or 01 425 5955 or email communications@nyci.ie

Notes to Editors:

National Youth Council of Ireland

The National Youth Council of Ireland is a membership-led umbrella organisation that represents and supports the interests of 55 voluntary youth organisations and uses its collective experience to act on issues that impact on young people.