THE DOCTORS' DILEMMA

New Zealand Herald, Volume L, Issue 15192, 4 January 1913, Page 7

THE DOCTORS' DILEMMA

NATIONAL INSURANCE ACT.

OBJECTION TO "LAY CONTROL"

By Telegraph.—Press Association.—Copyright.

.(ReceiVcd January 3. 10.35 p.m.)

1 London, January 3. Mr. Lloyd-George, addressing the National Insurance Advisory Committee stated that 10,000 doctors had agreed to serve under the Insurance Act and panels were possible in seven-eighths of the country. Mr. Lloyd-George contended that while the public regarded the revised terms to the doctors as generous, the doctors' attitude was a tacit admission that the terms fairly met the circumstances. They had latterly shifted the controversy from the question of remuneration to something called "lay control." No other profession objected to administrative control by a lay body responsible for payment. The Chancellor instanced the legal and teaching.professions, and added that arrangements were being made to deal with areas where the panels were inadequate. The closing of the panels has been extended to Saturday. A total of 937 doctors in Wales having joined the panels, outside doctors announce that they will treat patients at 8s 6d. The Welsh commissioners intimated that those insured must choose panel doctors. The majority of the Scottish panels _ will work on a competitive basis. j