(CTV Montreal News) — The Health Minister’s ban on hospital accessory fees eight months ago has proved to be problematic for Quebecers seeking some basic health services. Earlier this year, Gaetan Barrette did away with the conventional option that previously allowed patients access to IUD’s and vaccinations in doctor’s offices.
“Every week, several patients come in and say ‘this really frustrates me, why can’t you do this?’” explained Dr. Mitchell Shiller, a pediatrician.
Patients used to be able to purchase vaccines at their doctors’ offices and have the doctor administer the shot on-site.
“They didn’t have to make a second appointment to go to the CLSC if they were willing to pay a nominal charge. Parents chose accordingly, whatever their wishes were, and it was respected,” Shiller explained. “The biggest issue for many parents now, they have to take a second day off work—getting appointments is not very easy.”
Shiller says he’s also noticed a public health consequence: some parents are less likely to vaccinate their child at all—especially those sceptical about vaccines. (…)