§ 42. Mr. LECKIEasked the Minister of Health whether he is aware that many insured persons, probably between 60,000 and 100,000, will cease to be entitled to medical benefit at the end of this year as a result of the passing of the last National Health Insurance Act; and what steps he proposes to take to ensure that these people shall receive medical attention when ill?
Sir H. YOUNGA prolonged extension of insurance was granted under the National Health Insurance Acts to persons who have ceased to be employed and to pay contributions. After the further extension of title to medical benefit during 1933 given under the Act of last year, a number of persons will cease to be entitled to medical benefit on 31st December next. Within the financial resources of the Health Insurance scheme no further extension of insurance rights is permissible. These persons will, after the end of the present year, be in the same position with regard to medical attention during sickness as all other persons who are not within the scope of National Health Insurance.