1. Our surgery took the decision only to give NHS vaccs that are claimable,
all the rest are private at standard BMA rates. We felt that it was ridiculous
that people are quite happy to pay £100's for a holiday -their choice- but
expect the NHS to stump up the cost. It should be remembered that they are not
sick and the vaccs are for use outside the UK. The DOH already states that
people wanting drugs to use abroad eg antibios for UTI, must pay for them
unless it is part of continuing treatment initiated in the UK. It is
surprising therefore that the DOH has not stopped NHS travel vaccs already-
how long before they do. We seldom get any refusal's either.
2. We also give
the DOH Travel Book and our own leaflet.
3. Although many countries have reciprocal agreements, these do not cover the
cost of getting to the doctor. We always emphasis that people must have
comprehensive insurance. I mate recently was helicoptered from an alpine peak
after a fall and was presented with a £1500 bill for it!
4. I have this week had a USA temporary resident who was informed when
booking the appointment that she would have to pay fees for her consultation
about a minor problem and then refused to pay after it stating to me " I'm in
Britain now, so I am not going to pay. I am also leaving tomorrow for
France."!!
Dr Paul Caldwell
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