ILFA Releases 2025 Pre-Budget Submission

Lung fibrosis is a chronic, progressive, and life-limiting disease that results in severe shortness of breath, relentless cough, low oxygen levels, and extreme fatigue. ILFA estimates that approximately 1 in 1,600 people over the age of 65 in Ireland die from the disease each year.  

For more than 20 years, the Irish Lung Fibrosis Association (ILFA) has provided education, advocacy and direct supports to patients and the wider lung fibrosis community. Despite our work over the years, today many patients are forced to fight a battle on two fronts – against the progression of their disease, and against an inequitable ‘healthcare system’ that denies them access to the care they need.  

Equitable healthcare for lung fibrosis patients can only be realised through the establishment of a Clinical Care Programme. While we work toward this ultimate goal, we have interim priorities that if properly funded by the Irish Government, will go a long way in supporting lung fibrosis patients. 

Today, in our 2025 pre-budget submission, ILFA is calling on the Government to fund a patient registry, to resource the development of a Clinical Care Pathway and to expand pulmonary rehabilitation access to include lung fibrosis patients. We’re also seeking the establishment of a tax rebate programme to ensure patients who depend on oxygen are not denied their fundamental human right to breathe. 

Commenting on the submission, ILFA’s CEO, Maureen O’Donnell says: “It’s no secret Sláintecare is struggling to realise its vision of equitable healthcare for all. Ireland spends just 6.1% of GDP on healthcare, we’re in the bottom 15% of OECD countries. We see the result of underinvestment every day in waiting lists and trolley counts. For lung fibrosis patients, systemic underinvestment means many are denied basic, adequate care. As we look ahead to 2025 though we have an opportunity to invest in sensible changes that will make a big difference. This is all we ask for – that lung fibrosis patients get the care they need to help them manage their condition.”

Read ILFA’s Pre Budget Submission FINAL