Originally Posted by
Bluebird since 1948
The problem with the NHS in this country is the hysteria that surrounds any sort of reform (badly required. If we are to sort out the NHS funding issues and make it more sustainable then we must first deal with the bleating left. Currently the situation is untenable and whilst I agree that the NHS should be free at the point of use there are many ways to raise money.
First of all we can all contribute something to prescriptions, a flat £10 rate for all prescriptions (obvious exemptions for pensioners and the disabled). Free prescriptions sounds great but it's not realistic and a waste of money.
Fines. If you miss an appointment you should be fined, heavily. I have long advocated that we need to make more money from ignorance and stupidity. If someone misses an appointment for no reason then they should face a hefty fine. There are huge waiting times at the moment and I heard a statistic the other day that shocked me in regards to how many people just don't bother to turn up.
GPs earn enough, they should work weekends and evenings. I haven't been to see my GP for over ten years. I have often thought about it only to ring up and find that I can't see them for a month or so.
Finally we are missing a trick from not making money from the unhealthy. The NHS should charge thousands for people who want non emergency operations. Gastric bands for instance. This could raise millions for the NHS whilst also making sure fat people aren't a burden on the NHS in the future.