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Evening Star, Issue 24332, 22 October 1942, Page 4

“ In view of the large amount of administrative work involved in the present system during the war period, when it is essential that labour should be conserved in every possible way, it may become necessary to discuss the question of direct collection of medical fees with the medical profession,” stated the Minister of Health, Mr Nordmeyer, in the House of Representatives yesterday in a written reply to a question asked by Mr Denham. Mr Nordmeyer said that the number of doctors already claiming direct from the Social Security Fund was growing steadily, and because of that the question of compulsion had not received consideration by the Government'. The question of the amount of charges by doctors over and above the prescribed Social Security payments was constantly under review. Close investigation as to the adequacy of the amount 0f.,7s ud in the light of,the past year’s experience was being undertaken. Considerable attention , had also been given to the possibility of instituting an extended State medical service, including clinics on the most modern organisational lines to supplement the ordinary private practitioner and the hospital services as soon as war conditions permitted.— Parliamentary reporter.