HSE Cross Border Directive for Benign Prostate Hyperplasia BPH

FLOOPER

Hi all,

Been a tough year or so after being diagnosed with benign prostate hyperplasia.

Went into hospital with infections and have been on a catheter for over a year now. Got a cystascope done so treatments have been outlined. I've decided not to have a TURP for the obvious serious possible side effects. I'm still relatively young ish.

Question is: after a year with St Vincents - they only have TURP - I've now been referred to Loughlinstown Hospital for consultation. Speculatively looking at probably earliest July for Rezum treatment which would be second preferred treatment after Green Light Laser. Not sure I can wait another 6-12 months on a catheter.

Any ideas anyone.

I rang HSE before re Cross Border Initiative - and they have said that the consultant CAN recommend me for a private Green Light Laser treatment but when I asked him he was oblivious and I have to say not very helpful either.

I know that I can get the Green Light Laser done in Spain as was talking to a company that provides everything once you land. Even though it's only available on private in Ireland the HSE will cover the value of equivalent type of therapy - TURP - and i'd have to pay the rest. So they would cover 6 K and I'd have to cough up a further 3 K.

I know Knightsbridge Hospital in Belfast do it. Really looking for anyone who has gone through all this.

Really really frustrated:

Thanks guys

herbmeister

There's a new procedure in Tallaght hospital, much less invasive than a TURP, less side effects..

Enquire into that.

Try the National Treament Purchase Fund route... same as going to Kingsbridge only with Republic.

Hope that helps.

FLOOPER

Thanks Herbmeister.

I think Tallaght do the Urolift which isn’t suitable for me.

I did have a look at and left a message for call back from NTPF.

I may look at the CBD and pay the 3 K. Can’t go on living with this catheter for another 6-12 months.

Late n all but i’m getting Health Insurance next month and luckily i only have about 4% per annum loading.

herbmeister

Never too late for health insurance, but a mine field indeed as to where you're covered and for what...

Don't give up on the NTPF, keep calling... you never know..

Beat of luck..