MPs call for urgent action to tackle unfit for purpose NHS penalty fine system
A report compiled by MPs has called for urgent action to tackle the penalty fine system, which has been described as “not fit for purpose.”
A cross-party committee of MPs was asked to research and review the current system after it emerged that more than 1.6 million patients had received incorrect medical and dental fines. Having undertaken investigations, the scathing report condemned the system, as well as the response from the NHS to incorrect fines. Ministers labelled the reaction as “shockingly complacent” and criticised the penalty process.
Fines were supposed to be sent to dental and medical patients wrongly claiming free treatment from GPs and dentists, but a third were sent in error. The Public Accounts Committee was tasked with delving into the issue and identifying potential problems and solutions. The panel, which scrutinises public spending, suggested that the system needs a radical overhaul, as the current process is unclear, confusing and inefficient.
The British Dental Association and patient watchdogs have been vocal in their criticism of the Department of Health and Social Care, suggesting that the current fine system targets vulnerable people and discourages them from using services to which they are entitled. In many cases, dental patients who have additional needs were sent fines after making minor, innocent mistakes, such as failing to tick the right box on a form.
In light of the findings, the Department of Health has confirmed that additional checks will be made before fines are sent out to patients.
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