Local trades union bosses in the Burnham-On-Sea area have this week spoken out over reports that doctors surgeries could soon start charging for GP appointments.
Members of Bridgwater Trades Union Council, which covers the Burnham-On-Sea and Highbridge area, say they are concerned at the possible attempt to charge for GP appointments.
MP Christopher Chope has introduced the ‘NHS Co-funding and Co-Payment Bill’ which will be debated in Parliament in October. If successful, the Unions say the Bill could open up further charging.
Local Trades Union Council Secretary Dave Chapple said: “The NHS was created in 1948 so that healthcare would be available to all, regardless of wealth or income, and to be free at the point of delivery. The excuse that may be given in 2018 is that too many people visit their doctors for frivolous reasons and a charge would deter them.”
“Even if this were true, and there is little evidence, the effect of such a charge would be to deter those on low incomes. Some of these people might have serious ailments, which would then get worse, costing the NHS more in the long run.”
“The NHS is in crisis because of lack of funding. The answer to this is more funding, through direct taxation, of cash-rich companies and individuals, including some high-profile Westminster MPs who, many believe, find various ‘legal’ ways to dodge tax payments, not by penalising those who can least afford to pay.”
“When the UK banking system was collapsing in 2008, they were bailed out to the tune of around £280 billion: no lack of cash funding then!”
“Members of Parliament should oppose this Bill when it returns to the House of Commons in October. Please write to your MP or sign and help collect signatures for a petition by contacting glenburrows@btinternet.com.”
