Health should always come first, yet research reveals that cost concerns lead many to forgo necessary medical care.
Survey data indicates that 81% of general practitioners (GPs) and 89% of pharmacists regularly encounter patients struggling to afford healthcare or medications. Alarmingly, half of GPs report patients taking 'irresponsible risks' by skipping care, treatment, or prescriptions.
This issue is on the rise, with 53% of GPs and 60% of pharmacists observing more frequent avoidance of healthcare services. In response, 21% of GPs admit to saving leftover medications for patients in need—though this practice is officially prohibited.
Key Insights from the Survey
These findings stem from a comprehensive survey by Omroep MAX, conducted in partnership with the Association of General Practitioners (LHV) and the Royal Dutch Pharmacists Association (KNMP). The results will be explored in depth during The National Care Debate on January 23 at 20:25 on NPO 2.
