The Coalition of Organisations of Patients with Chronic Diseases of Romania (COPAC) has criticized the Government’s decision to grant an exemption from social security contributions for sick leave only to specific groups, labeling it as ‘unfair and discriminatory.’ The approved exemption covers pregnant women, mothers with sick children, cancer patients, and emergency cases, but excludes all other chronic patients.
During Thursday’s meeting, the Government announced the approval of the exemption for the mentioned categories, as stated by the Executive’s spokesman, Mihai Constantin.
‘No, Mr. Prime Minister, sick leave should not be viewed as a source of income! It is a fundamental right of all citizens and should be treated as such. The Coalition of Organisations of Patients with Chronic Diseases of Romania emphasizes that chronic conditions extend beyond cancer. Diseases like cardiovascular conditions, stroke, multiple sclerosis, rare diseases, inflammatory rheumatic diseases, tuberculosis, and HIV/AIDS also require support. For instance, a tuberculosis patient may need extended sick leave for up to two years. Instead of penalizing everyone, efforts should focus on addressing fraudulent cases,’
stated representatives of COPAC.
COPAC has expressed its intention to challenge the proposed law if it is rushed through as an emergency ordinance.
‘Therefore, we urge you to honor your commitments and ensure that chronic patients are not unfairly penalized. Should the law proceed in its current form, we, as advocates for patients with chronic and rare diseases, will vigorously oppose it,’
added the same source.
Imaginea utilizată în acest articol a fost preluata de pe site-ul Stiri pe Surse și poate fi vizualizată direct aici.
