Irish Times editorial: Time for clarity on health cuts

At a time of falling incomes and high unemployment, medical inflation has risen and pressure is being exerted on public services. The cost of private insurance rose rapidly, becoming unaffordable for many people as the VHI responded to competition and penalised its older clients. A Government health levy was increased by 40 per cent to address this issue and to fund community rating. But long-promised risk equalisation legislation is still awaited. Community care services are under intense pressure. Public nursing homes may close and access to private facilities is uncertain. Members of the public require reassurance and a clear explanation of what, exactly, is being done on their behalf. (Irish Times) >