Women’s clinics

Press, 7 January 1987, Page 24

Women’s clinics

Sir,—There is no* way that three well-women’s clinics could be funded with $125,000. The true costs are being concealed as $40,000 for each clinic would not be enough to start the place. It would pay only part of the salary of the retired hospital specialist involved. There are salaries for nurses, reception and secretarial help. Premises have to be provided, maintained, cleaned, heated, lighted and insured. Medical equipment is needed and office furnishings, telephones, stationery, clinical records, etc. There are superannuation, sick leave, redundancy pay, A.C.C. levies, transport and uniforms. The women’s organisation T.H.A.W. has been good for general practice. It has caused G.P.s to look at some of their deficiencies. There are other realities. One is that if more than one doctor is involved then no-one is responsible. Why not encouragement for G.P.s to provide better services for all people? The Health Department tinkers with primary care, plays politics. A major review is needed.—Yours, etc., SELWYN CARSON. January £, 1987. < J. ,T