Oncological patients' caregivers could receive leave and compensation during medical investigations, according to a USR draft law.

USR deputies Ciprian Rigman, Adrian Wiener, and Ovidiu Paraschivescu have submitted a bill to amend Law no. 158/2005, which concerns health insurance leaves and benefits.

The initiative proposes that individuals who care for cancer patients over the age of 18 should benefit from leave and compensation not only for surgical interventions and treatments but also for medical investigations.

Deputy Rigman emphasized that this project corrects an inequity, considering the difficulties faced by patients in the healthcare system. Adrian Wiener added that the emotional and physical support of caregivers is essential in these difficult times.

The project targets approximately 560,000 cancer patients in Romania who periodically require medical investigations.

Ovidiu Paraschivescu highlighted the importance of family support in these situations, arguing that the state should not financially penalize caregivers. Through this proposal, national legislation aligns with the European Union's recommendations regarding support for cancer patients.