No Need to Attack Doctor

By ROGER N FORD

IT WAS with much disappointment that I read the personal attack on Dr George Rae, pictured, by Mr Alan Brunskill of Stanley. It was around the current debate about the opening times of GP surgeries.

It is important the debate hinges on the facts rather than apparent personal prejudices against individuals.

The facts are clear. Last year the Government conducted a massive confidential survey of patients in the North East. 88% of the respondents were happy with the current availability of their GPs.

Nevertheless, to improve access even further, the majority of GPs have since indicated their willingness to extend their opening hours if properly resourced to pay for staff, premises etc.

However, there is a separate agenda which Dr Rae and his colleagues are attempting to bring to the attention of the public. This Labour Government is making no secret of the fact that it welcomes the involvement of private sector companies – and their shareholders – into general practice in the UK. This is the origin of the massive resources offered to those who are prepared to bid for a small number of practices which are being advertised for “tender”.

The problem is that this investment will benefit only a very small number of patients, and the majority will see no equivalent investment in their practices.

Most GPs and their patients believe the status of the NHS is sacrosanct. Investment monies should be available to improve health care for all – not for a small number of shareholders who will benefit from NHS resources. We believe the extra investment should be available for all practices and their patients. Dr Rae and his colleagues are trying to bring this to the attention of the public before it is too late. It is unfortunate that Mr Brunskill is unable to see the broader picture and recognize that the vast majority of the medical profession is genuinely motivated by altruism for our NHS – and not by profit. DR ROGER N FORD Hon Secretary, Northern Council BMA.

(c) 2008 Evening Chronicle – Newcastle-upon-Tyne. Provided by ProQuest Information and Learning. All rights Reserved.