PATIENTS’ FEES.

Hawera Star, Volume XLVII, 21 May 1928, Page 9

PATIENTS’ FEES.

AT HAWERA HOSPITAL,

SUBSTANTIAL INCREASE DECIDED ON.

The question of .fees .paid by patients at the Hawera public hospital was considered in response to a request ,by the Local Bodies’ Association at tb-'lay’s meeting, notice of motion, having been given by Mr. A. L.,Campbell “that.the. fees for treatment be increased.” As the result of the discussion, a decision was made to increase to l 12s per day for adults and 6a for children, less Is and 6d respectively.for cash payments. This was carried as an amendment to Mr. Campbell’s motion that the fees be 10s 6d and 7s.

Mr. Campbell said his first idea had been to make the fee higher, bat he felt it would be a .hardship on poor people, and there .would ,be less chance of getting payment. He was conforming to t'ne wishes 0 f the association, but considered that the board could not go too far. However, the Government also wished the increase, and as expenses were very high, if there were more fees the hospitals would be a. lesser burden on the country.

Mr. G. W. Tayler seconded. Mr. Crighton said he would like to see the increase made larger, and Mr. Larcom agreed, saying that the shilling was hardly worth considering. Mr. Campbell said his first idea had been to make it 12s, but believed it would be a retrograde step to make the fee too high.

Mr. Gillaiulers approved the higher figure because the department had approved. The board could not go behind that decision.

Mr. Tayler said he thought they were going too high; it was almost the price of doctors’ fees.

Mr. Crighton moved as an amendment that the rates be 12s and 6s respectively for adults and children, and this was carried, the voting being: For the increase: Messrs; McKay,Crighton, Washer, Larcom,. Gillanders. Against: Messrs Campbell, Winks, Tayler, and Gifford.