2009/7/19 Chris Salter <[log in to unmask]>:
> The group said it would not breach the values of the NHS as charges
> already applied to dentistry and prescriptions
Prescription charges are not intended to discourage people from taking
medication, it only seems that way. Low income groups do not pay the
charges, and it would be politically impossible not to have similar
arrangements for consultation fees.
So the poorest would get their consultations free. And the better off
would not be dissuaded from "unnecessary" consultations by a £20 fee.
But people caught in the "poverty trap" would be unable to access
proper medical care. I don't think we should add to their burden.
Mike
--
Michael Leuty
Nottingham, UK
|