Radical reforms needed to tackle waiting times, says former health secretary
Photograph: Peter Nicholls/ReutersPhotograph: Peter Nicholls/ReutersPatients should be charged for GP appointments and A&E visits,The former health secretary said “extending the contributory principle” should be part of radical reforms to tackle growing waiting times.
In an opinion piece for the Times, he called for a “grown-up, hard-headed conversation” about revamping the health service, noting that “too often the appreciation for theThe prime minister, Rishi Sunak, is not “currently” considering the proposals, Downing Street told the newspaper. During his campaign for the Tory leadership, Sunak set out plans to issue £10 fines to patients who miss GP or hospital appointments.after it was widely criticised by health leaders, signalling the controversy surrounding any reforms that could threaten the principle of free NHS care at the point of need.
Javid said the NHS’s only rationing mechanism – to make people wait – should be replaced by means-tested fees, while “protecting those on low incomes”.“This conversation will not be easy, but it can help the NHS ration its finite supply more effectively.” He pointed to Ireland’s “nominal” €75 fee for attending an injury unit without a referral, and £20 fees charged for GP appointments in Norway and Sweden as possible models.Archie Bland and Nimo Omer take you through the top stories and what they mean, free every weekday morningNewsletters may contain info about charities, online ads, and content funded by outside parties.
Malaysia Latest News, Malaysia Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
‘You have to set time aside for friendship’: the radical power of hanging outFrom sharing a cuppa to lazing in the park, is the key to happiness doing everyday activities with pals?
Read more »
'A national disgrace': Peter Dutton calls for PM to take urgent action on Alice Springs crimePeter Dutton says he fears there'll be ''tragedy' in Alice Springs as the town battles an intense, violent and prolonged crime crisis.
Read more »
Doctors calls for sugar tax on soft drinksDoctors want consumers to pay 16 cents more for a can or bottle of sugary soft drink to reduce rates of obesity, diabetes and dental problems in children. The Australian Medical Association says 85 countries now have a 'sugar tax', and it's time Australia introduced one, too.
Read more »
Alice Springs is a ‘scary’ place as calls come for the ADF to interveneAlice Springs Mayor Matt Paterson says the CBD has become such a “scary” place and the government is considering calling up the Australian Defence Force to help control the youth crime spree. “It is scary and I have asked for the AFP and the ADF to come help,” Mr Paterson told Sky News Australia. “We’ve had our CBD shut down twice, effectively by the police, because of youths who’ve stolen vehicles and caused danger to themselves, the police and the public. “We had a thirteen-year-old effectively shut down a supermarket the other day. “Patrons actually got locked in the supermarket for their safety because a thirteen-year-old was wielding a machete around.”
Read more »
Calls to standardise Sydney's road toll pricing as 'patchwork' expands with WestConnex openingSydney's toll road network has been described as one of the most expensive in the world. As another section of WestConnex opens, experts say it's time for consistent pricing.
Read more »
Qantas calls for calm after engine failure and three flight turnbacksThe airline industry has moved to reassure customers that air travel remains safe after an engine failure and three turnbacks on Qantas flights this week
Read more »