WE ARE seeing increasing evidence and reporting of the serious funding problems in the NHS and I fear this great service is in imminent danger of collapse.


The first step to saving the NHS is to stop the appalling abuse of the system.


In my view, those needing treatment because of illness or injury associated with self-inflicted causes such as alcohol abuse, drug/legal high abuse, smoking and obesity should be required to pay for all or at least some of their treatment.


Why should the rest of us fund their irresponsible behaviour and stand by watching them divert precious resources from genuine cases?


This matter needs a proper debate and I would suggest there are other groups who might also be required to pay for treatment, such as those who indulge in extreme sports.

In this case, a requirement to have insurance could be the solution.


Ninety per cent of weekend A&E admissions at some hospitals are said to be related to alcohol abuse. This is simply unsustainable, both in terms of funding and the health of the nation. Applying charges would have benefits in many ways.

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