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The Social Security Minister has said that she "understands the frustration" surrounding the rising cost of GP fees, and is "committed to launching a plan to help islanders very soon."
Following the news that GP fees rose to over £60 at the beginning of the month, Deputy Elaine Millar restated her commitment to helping islanders cope with the increasing cost of seeing a doctor.
The Minister said: "It is unfortunate that an increase has happened just after we announced that discussions were taking place to reduce the cost."
Last month, Deputy Elaine Miller announced that she was in discussions with the Primary Care Body, who represent the island's GPs, with the aim of lowering the cost of GP appointments.
At the beginning of this month, GP surgeries including the Island Medical Centre and HealthPlus, increased fees for standard GP appointments, citing the need to keep pace with inflation and the rising cost of living. A standard GP appointment at the Island Medical Centre rose from £54.50 to £64.
The Minister continued: "We recognise that as independent businesses, GPs have to consider their business costs which are also being challenged with the rising cost of living. This does also add to the complexity of why a simple increase to the rebate may not be effective.
"My team are working hard to agree a mechanism that will guarantee a fee reduction for all Islanders and I hope to share more details very soon.”
GP fees rise amid Minister's cost cut plans
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