DUTY TO PATIENTS

Waikato Times, Volume 124, Issue 20737, 22 February 1939, Page 10

DUTY TO PATIENTS

OPINIONS OF DOCTOR STATE HEALTH PLAN DOUBTS FOR FUTURE (By Telegraph.—Press Association) CHRISTCHURCH, Tuesday : “It Is obvious that the medical profession must view the future with some feelings of doubt and uncertainty. We are at- the cross-roads and should be prepared to fight for what we consider is best for our patients and for ourselves," said the newly-appointed president of the New Zealand branch of the British Medical Association, Mr P. Stanley Foster, commenting tonight at a reception to members of the branch attending its biennial conference on the problems raised by the Social Security Act. “Our first duty is to our patients, and we should assure the public of our intention to give them the best ; possible service at all times, perhaps even in spite of social security," added Mr Foster. “We may coiYifort ourselves with the knowledge that the services of good doctors are more indispensable now than ever they were." Drastic Changes i Mr Foster said the Social Security 'Act would make draslic changes in 'the work of the medical profession. ; How great these changes would be | many people, medical or lay. did not j realise, but it was safe to say that the I whole type of medical practice might jbe changed. It was only natural that 'any body of the community should ■ view with some misgiving anything which would alter so completely their 'whole work. It was hard [o get clear .judgment and perspective. "It is clear that the profession must endeavour to maintain its standard of practice." said Mr Foster. “As a whole the profession in New Zealand is ou‘i standingly good, and the public has neon well served, even when payment |has been doubtful. The profession is surely entitled to security, and must be assured of it if high standards are to be maintained."