NHS and care for the elderly

[zeezeek]

Saw this today:

www.hsj.co.uk/news/nice-rejects-drug-policy-that-values-pensioners-less/5068075.article?blocktitle=News&contentID=8805#.UwNf7YXTrTo

Now I am aware that our Govt are a bunch of tossers and not much they do surprises me anymore - but this, this really is sinking to a new level.

The whole aim of the NHS is to provide care free at the point of service to anyone who "is, or believes themselves to be, ill" (quote taken from the GP contract).

I also can't believe that this has not been reported further - apparently it was originally in The Times and this link is the Health Service Journal for NHS managers.

AIBU to have expected this to have been reported more widely? Who the hell would actually agree to such a disgraceful plan? Thank God NICE have refused to do it.

Link can't be viewed - it's subscribers only.

Sorry - this is the main bit:

"NICE has rejected government proposals that would see an assessment of the benefits a patient may have on society being taken into account when deciding whether to pay for new drugs. The advisory body dismissed plans by ministers that would see patients who contribute to the economy being given priority."