Would you like to top up your NHS treatment?
It seems that each month we hear of a new wonder drug which has been refused by the NHS on cost aspects alone. We hear of cancer patients suffering when there are drugs which can help them, so what is the answer? What can be done?
There is a growing call amongst the medical profession for patients to be given the chance to 'top up' and contribute to their own treatment where some drugs may not be supplied by the NHS. The idea is that this would ensure there was no 'black market' in new drugs and also allow the NHS to use its substantial bargaining power to get the drugs at rock bottom prices. But would you like to pay for your own treatment? Is it right?
This is a new debate which is set to go on and on for sometime with sceptics suggesting that this is the open door to privatisation of the NHS - something which has already begun in earnest with many activities already in the hands of third party providers. While we would all like to think the NHS will be there for us it seems that the days of the old giant are numbered. Despite literally billions of pounds being pumped into the service, it has been used, abused and kicked around like a political football for years. Is it time for some assistance?
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