FLINTSHIRE politicians have poured scorn on a think-tank’s proposal that anyone wishing to see a GP should be made to pay a £20 fee.
The Social Market Foundation said the introduction of charges for an appointment could help the NHS cope during tight financial times.
The group said charges already applied to dentistry and prescriptions in England, and the idea would not breach the values of the NHS.
Report author David Furness said the £20 fee would get people to "think twice about whether their visit was essential".
“The core principle of the NHS should be that it is fair. But fair is not the same as free at the point of use,” he said.
“The alternative to getting people to ration themselves is a return to rationing by stealth - waiting lists, crumbling hospitals and poor quality services - which hits hardest the poor and sick,” Mr Furness added.
Delyn MP David Hanson however has slammed the proposal saying: “I don’t think it’s a positive idea, I think it will deter people from seeing their GP.
“The government don’t support it and I agree we should remain committed to providing free access for everybody.”
“If anything it would deter people from seeing their doctor.”
Delyn AM Sandy Mewies also rejected the idea, and said: “I believe as a matter of principle that NHS services should be free at the point of use - as they are now.”
Leader reader Mrs Docherty emailed to say: "I think it is disgusting if people have to pay to go and see the doctor.
"How many old age pensioners can afford to see the doctor?
"It will be a choice of keeping warm or pay to see the doctor.
"Isn't that why we pay National Insurance for?"
She added: "They just keep taking off the working man and yet again people on the dole wont have to pay."
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