The Pharmaceutical Journal
Vol 276 No 7387 p167
11 February 2006

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· Skin conditions (2)
· Statins
· Independent prescribing
· Compliance aids (2)
· Universal health care
· Assisted dying
· CPD
· The Society

Letters to the Editor

Universal health care

A more positive approach is needed

From Mr B. D. Nathwani, MRPharmS

The leading article (PJ, 4 February, p122) highlights the issue of what we as a society value most. It is clear from the tone that the PJ does not share the values of New Labour or the electorate that put New Labour in power for three successive terms.

The article makes a presumptive statement that it is prohibitively expensive to provide health care for all (and I presume it left out the words “and sundry”) so as not to cause offence. And yet, as the fourth richest nation on earth, we are still merely in the middle of the European league of health care expenditure.

As health care professionals, we should share in the vision for universal good health care available for all and free at point of delivery. We should aspire to a fair tax system that values health care based on need rather than postcodes, or the ability to jump the queue, or the ability to shout the loudest.

It took 18 years of under-investment in human and physical capital by the Conservatives during 1979–1997 to create million-plus waiting lists and a shoddy second rate physical infrastructure. To expect this to be reversed in a mere eight years is pure fantasy.

Bharat Nathwani
Member of Council
Royal Pharmaceutical Society

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