HC Deb 17 July 1912 vol 41 c398
72. Mr. WATT

asked what is the figure per head of insured persons paid to medical attendants under the German Insurance Acts; and whether that sum includes drugs or not?

Mr. MASTERMAN

I am informed that the average cost to the German sickness insurance societies of medical attendance, exclusive of medicine, was, in 1910, 5s. lO¼d. per member. These charges include in some cases the treatment of dependants as well as of insured persons.

Mr. WORTHINGTON-EVANS

Can the right hon. Gentleman say what was the cost of the drugs?

Mr. MASTERMAN

I will, if the hon. Gentleman will give notice.

Mr. LYNCH

Is it not impossible to form a fair comparison unless we know the exact difference in status, etc., between the German and the English doctor?

Mr. MASTERMAN

I agree that the bare mention of figures as between the German and the English system would not be satisfactory.

Mr. LLOYD

Does the sum include drugs?

Mr. MASTERMAN

I have already stated that it is exclusive of medicines.