Prescription levy a dangerous idea
Friday November 27 2009
MAY I reply to the unsigned letter headed "Prescription charge will help cut waste" (Letters, November 26 ) on the basis that it represents a very dangerous approach to a perceived problem. Aside from the unclear motive behind the letter, it contains a serious inaccuracy where it suggests that a charge is levied in the UK but fails to point out that this charge is waived in the vast majority of cases.
This is to ensure that the most vulnerable do not decide to ignore their doctor's instructions.
The letter then stoops into the familiar territory of suggesting that those on welfare are somehow living a life of ease and refers to them as the "entitled to" as compared with the hard-pressed "middle-income worker".
It appears, given the title of the letter, that the author is of the view that all on welfare are also ill and receiving free prescriptions. An odd conclusion-or a smidgen of prejudice on the part of the writer perhaps.
But all that aside, it remains the case that introducing a blanket change will bring with it the real possibility of people not filling their prescriptions and surely a nurse, above all people, would cringe at such a thought.
If, as the letter suggests, there is waste in the system due to over-prescribing then that must be addressed.
This can best be achieved in conjunction with the Irish Medical Organisation and must, at all times, be done only in a fashion that will not result in ill people going without proper medication. Aside from the danger to the patient, this will only cost the taxpayer more in the fullness of time.
Jim O'Sullivan
Rathedmond, Sligo
Irish Independent
