Norfolk & Norwich Hospital Charges Highlight the Need for Reforms

2.27.06pm BST (GMT +0100) Wed 19th Jul 2006

Each car parking space at the Norfolk & Norwich Hospital brought in an average of £1,294 in parking charges over the last year. On top of this, patients pay excessively high charges for the use of telephones, the internet and televisions. Those phoning in to speak to patients are also charged extra. These extra services are provided by a company called Patientline, who describe themselves on their website as "the market leader in bedside communication and entertainment services."

I'm not sure how competitive the market is for providing basic phone services to those being treated in hospital, but their high charges might give an idea - http://www.patientlinesystems.com/uk/en/our_services_and_pricing.aspx

Those who have to attend hospital regularly for day treatment face huge parking charges.

It is unacceptable that those in need of treatment should have to pay stealth taxes to receive it.

Fortunately, a committee of MPs has been looking into the situation nationally and has highlighted the need for change. Now pressure needs to be put on to the Government to listen and act.