Re: “MSP premiums should be axed,” Feb. 1.

We are told B.C. is one of the few provinces to continue to require Medical Services Plan premiums and therefore, with the classical “monkey see, monkey do” approach of many governments, we must consider change.

This is the reverse of having various fees paid into general revenue where they do not get credited against the intended programs. Tire, battery and paint disposal and other so-called environmental fees come to mind.

Paying medical bills from general revenue will create a vagueness between the insurer and the insuree. One now has an implied contract with the insurer to provide adequate medical service, and failure to provide that service might well result in legal action. Deprive the insurer of that clear contract, and one takes a giant step toward socialized medicare, where one is at the mercy of government for quality. This could well evolve into people losing the freedom to choose one’s doctor, with the requirement that one report to the clinic of the government’s choice.

If premiums unfairly penalize low-income people, there are a number of options, including having the government pay premiums as part of a welfare program.

We pay for other medical care through MSP premiums and thereby have the means to hold the government accountable. Such a system is far from the socialized medicine of some European countries. Beware of politicians who would introduce these changes.

Lorne Newson

Victoria

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