sick baby-any allownace??

C

cherry81

Guest
hi
I have a 4 week old baby who has a rare genetic condition. its not life threatening really but he has no sweat glands so can easily over heat and also has feeding and breathing dificulties along with other smaller problems DH and I (part time) both work. I`m not due back to work until feb but DS2 will need extra care and special attention so might not be able to return.
Does anyone know if we`re entitled to any allownace or anything? Someone mentioned DCA allownace?? Also we would not qualify for a medical card but he will need lots of creams etc for skin, probably a nebuliser and regular GP visits. Would we be entitled to one under these circumstances?
I`d really appreciate any advice
Thanks
 
You should apply for the Medical Card. Although your income might be above the guidelines for a medical card, you can appeal a refusal on the grounds of hardship - the additional costs associated with your baby's condition would lead to financial difficulties within the household.

Information on Domiciliary Care Allowance can be found here:
domiciliary Care Allowance
 
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talk to your gp you should be entitled to medical card . they will do out a report for you . some times they do not means test you when the baby is sick . you should also apply for domiciliary care allowance.
 
Thanks for the replies.
We have appointment in Crumlin next week to clinically diagnose his condition so I will apply for both after that.
Thanks again
 
cherry81 said:
Also we would not qualify for a medical card but he will need lots of creams etc for skin, probably a nebuliser and regular GP visits.
Click to expand...

Even though you won't qualify for a medical card on the means test you can ask to be assessed on medical grounds.
If this fails you should apply for a GP Visit card & then once you get a proper diagnosis you should be able to get a Long Term Illness Card which will cover any prescriptions.

Again depending on the diagnosis you might be able to apply for the DCA which means you'll also get the Respite Care grant.

Hope this helps....
 
you should perhaps also touch base with the taxman to see if there are any medical/care costs that can be set off against your tax
 
Mpsox said:
you should perhaps also touch base with the taxman to see if there are any medical/care costs that can be set off against your tax
Click to expand...

That reminds me that if the condition turns out to be severe (hopefully it won't) you may be entitled to the "incapacitated child" tax credit.
 
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