British Unions call protests over NHS bill

[Joanne98]

Source: PressTV

The major reforms tabled by Health Secretary Andrew Lansley propose the NHS to hand over distribution of 80 percent of its services worth around £80 billion to GPs.

Lansley's plan, which can also increase private sector's involvement in providing NHS services has triggered outrage among unions and the health staff who say the coalition is “rushing through” the Bill.

This comes as a YouGov poll, commissioned by public services union Unison, showed only 27 percent of the British public support the stronger private sector role in NHS against 50 percent who oppose it.

The survey also showed the opposition is most strong among Lib Dem voters with 56 percent frowning on the measures against 30 percent who gave their approval. This is while the backing was 46 percent among Conservatives against a 32 percent opposition.



Read more: http://www.presstv.ir/detail/163041.html

[dipsydoodle]

1. For the avoidance of doubt

generally speaking our GP's are NHS. This is a transfer of administration costs.

Our NHS is currently the worlds 3rd largest employer behind India Rail and the Chinese Army.

[enlightenment]

2. Please correct me if I'm wrong (which is entirely possible) -

I was under the impression that the 'danger' of transferring the administration of NHS funds to the GPs was that many of the GPs are inexperienced in this sort of administration; loathe to commit the time; and more likely to form consortium's that will hire private companies to do the actual administration.

I don't think it takes a mind-reader to see that the goal of the Con-Lib government is, ultimately, to privatize the NHS. To suggest that it needs adjustment is one thing . . . but (personally) I wouldn't trust the current government to tell me which way is up, and this 'plan' stinks to high heaven. I realize that outlook makes me unlikely to see any good coming out of their plans for the NHS . . .

edited to clarify (not that it's clear in any case)

[MedicalAdmin]

4. Dear Brits - please do this.

Then the NHS won't look so good in comparison to US health insurance. You're making us look bad and our private companies want a piece of your pie.

What's a little (lot) of private company inefficiency and graft between a doctor and patient, n'est pas?

[dipsydoodle]

6. Would still be better

Ours covers conception to death - no such thing as pre-existing conditions.

[dipsydoodle]

5. Difficult to gauge what will happen long term

but initially the GPs may just increase the staff at their practice.

The difference of course between GP's staff and current NHS staff is the exposure on public pensions which would become lower.

[enlightenment]

7. True - I shouldn't knee jerk . . .

but I can't help but fear this may be a big mistake.

[grahamhgreen]

3. K&R