Media release
The federal leader of the Palmer United Party and Member for Fairfax, Clive Palmer, has called on the Abbott government to drop all plans for the GP co-payment and any increases in health charges.
Mr Palmer said the Palmer United Party senators will oppose the co-payment because all Australians must be allowed free access to hospitals and doctors regardless of their economic circumstances.
“The Prime Minister must show leadership and kill the proposal for a co-payment immediately,’’ Mr Palmer said.
“Australians deserve a fair go.
“Australia’s health budget is only 8.9 per cent of GDP compared to 17 per cent in the United States, yet more than 60 million Americans are not covered.
“Low income earners, single parent families, pensioners, nursing home patients and those who are socially or financially disadvantaged will be hardest hit by a GP co-payment.
“It is a ruthless attack on Australians when savings can be made elsewhere in the budget.
“The co-payment should be dropped today. The Palmer United Party will not support a co-payment in the Senate.”
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