15.04.13
The penalty for misuse?
The King’s Fund has examined some controversial issues in a much-needed discussion about NHS funding with the public – and found that desire to stick to the status quo runs deep.
People are highly opposed to introducing means-testing, or for reduction of quality in services; all themes those working in the NHS are likely to already know. But there was some indication that alternatives could be tolerated, if implemented in the right way.
The most interesting of these is that of introducing charges for ‘non-clinically necessary’ services – always a slippery one to define – and for those who misuse the system in some way.
Of course, this would not be without its pitfalls; what about honest mistakes, or pure forgetfulness that lead to missed appointments, or ending up drunk in A&E? Although such things must be tackled, and abuse against staff can never be acceptable, most so-called misuse of the NHS is neither deliberate nor malicious. Should these people then be made to pay for their care?
It might have opened a can of worms, but these are things that need to be talked about, with the people any changes will affect.
Tell us what you think – have your say below, or email us directly at [email protected]