MPs hear people without ID or proof of residence are being denied healthcare

By Josh Thomas7th May 2019News EnglandAdult Care, Care Quality Commission, Government / Politics, News England, Primary Care / GP's, Vulnerable Adults

There are calls for stricter enforcement for GPs as MPs heard people without ID or proof of residence are being denied healthcare.

Health minister Jackie Doyle-Price told MPs that, while the Government will take action against “health tourism”, it is important to make sure people who are entitled to care do not miss out simply because they do not have ID.

Speaking in the Commons, Ms Doyle-Price (pictured) said: “We are very clear that GPs’ surgeries can not refuse to register somebody of no fixed abode or with no proof of identification, and in situations where practices do not properly provide access to vulnerable groups, the Commissioner will intervene to make sure the practice corrects this.

“Ultimately, the Commissioner can issue a remedial notice or, at the end state, can actually terminate the contracts of a practice that still does not abide by its obligations.”

Labour MP Kate Green (Stretford and Urmston) said a report by a “mystery shopper” had shown they had had difficulty getting a GP appointment without ID or proof of address, saying 24 out of 50 practices “refused or would not register her”.

She said GPs must abide by guidelines, and that the Care Quality Commission (CQC) must enforce the guidance.

Ms Doyle-Price said: “I totally agree. I have seen the report and I do welcome it. I’ll certainly be taking that up with the CQC.

“It is very important that we make sure we use all tools to ensure everyone has access to the healthcare they deserve, and it is all too easy for some groups to remain discriminated against.”

Tory MP Andrew Bridgen (North West Leicestershire) said: “We have one of the very few free at the point of need health services in the world, do you agree that these checks are important, however, to crack down on health tourism?”

Ms Doyle-Price replied: “Health tourism is a major cost to the tax payer. It is important that we do establish that people are entitled to care.

“However, it is important to ensure that, without proof of ID and of residence, people are still entitled to that healthcare. Where someone is not entitled to it, we will, of course, pursue them for payment.”