Politician know and admit in private that NHS under present dictate is unsustainable, needs drastic overall, yet no one has courage to admit it in public. It is time we adopt French and German model most EU nations have implemented that gives first class service but slightly modified to suit British needs. It is time to introduce small charge with insurance cover for visits to GP, A & E and admissions that will instantly stop “Health Tourists” with limited exemption to deserving patients.
British embassies issuing tourist visas overseas, especially in US, should insist on having medical insurance, as we would not travel even to EU countries without such policies, although we are entitled to free medical treatment under EU rules. But in reality, no one would touch us without medical insurance; the first document ambulance crew demand to see and would not hesitate to turn back if we fail to produce it.
With steep increase in ageing population that needs constant care, no amount of cash alone will ease pressure on NHS that could become bottomless pit, devouring billions without improving NHS. We need brave politicians ready to speak out of conviction, not convenience. But in present climate, it would amount to political suicide, as we are brain-washed in believing that it should be free at point of delivery, yet we pay 85% of dental treatment privately, costliest in EU. It is time to set our priorities right.
Kumudbala Valambia
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