Romanian Senate expands caregiver leave for adult cancer patients
The Senate approved a USR-backed bill that grants paid leave and benefits to people who accompany adult oncology patients to medical investigations.
A legislative initiative submitted by USR deputies Ciprian Rigman, Adrian Wiener and Ovidiu Paraschivescu was adopted by the Senate, aiming to broaden the scope of caregiver benefits for adult cancer patients. Currently, paid leave and indemnity apply only to companions during surgeries and treatments; the new amendment would also cover attendance at important medical investigations and check-ups. The change to Law no. 158/2005 requires a patient’s request and a recommendation from the attending physician for the caregiver to qualify.
The bill received overwhelming support, with 106 of 107 senators voting in favour, underscoring a consensus that assistance for oncology patients should be non-partisan. Lawmakers emphasized that the measure addresses a gap in the existing system and provides essential social support during the complex, emotionally taxing diagnostic and treatment process.
