I am quite surprised by the lack of media interest in the controversial government draft contract for providing free medical services for children under six. It is a publication of national significance as it clearly highlights how it plans to introduce free general practice services to the whole population.
Currently, we have the most “pro-poor” general practice service in Europe which compensates somewhat for the “pro-rich” hospital service. However, that is changing. Over the last year, GPs have seen patients at the fringes of society, and not able to cope with HSE bureaucracy, being deprived of full medical cards on “probity” grounds. Also more of the patients with the highest medical needs in society are being refused discretionary medical cards. (Examiner) >
Filed under: General practice, Services
