An initiative valued at £2 million has been introduced in Guernsey with the aim of rendering children’s healthcare more economical.
Under this proposal, the fee for a GP appointment would be reduced to £25, while children would be eligible for an annual complimentary dental check-up.
For urgent hospital appointments, a fee of £25 would apply, and a consultation with a nurse at a GP’s office would incur a charge of £15.
Pending approval from the deputies in August, these revised fees are anticipated to take effect from September 2021.
Integral to this plan is an allocation of £150,000 to foster “enrichment and cultural activities” in primary schools.
Presently, the cost of a GP appointment for those under 18 is determined by the respective medical facility.
To fund these services, the proposal suggests discontinuing the weekly family allowance tax benefit for households earning more than £120,000 per annum and terminating the benefit when the child reaches 18 years of age.