WARWICK Daily News online account holders have responded to the proposal to charge patients $5 to see a bulk-billing doctor.

Warwick is very lucky to have a medical centre where the majority of its 16 doctors bulk-bill, in my opinion this is the mark of a caring doctor.

I am not sure of the number of doctors in Stanthorpe, at a guess about 14 or so I would say. However, I can only think of one who bulk-bills and if anyone knows the exact numbers I would be pleased to know.

All I know is this: when my late husband really needed a doctor, one of our doctors saw him, charged $100, but refused to treat him. Work that one out.

Pussyfoot from Stanthorpe

The co-payment should be pegged at the cost of a big Mac meal (whatever that is).

Unabashed from Toowoomba South

Dr Hetherington if we don't panic now and protest then it becomes "fait accompli", we do not want an American Health System where being sick can bankrupt a family and people are left with not seeking treatment for illness.

Bishop from Moodlu

Many of those who'll be affected are those who NEED to regularly visit doctors.

I'm waiting for all the usual anti-poor rants to justify ramping up the cost of living.

Where hundreds of thousands of struggling people are judged by the false stereotype of the smoking, drunk gambling addicts.

Rai_o_Sunshine from East Toowoomba

Having watched the introduction of the National Health Scheme in the UK, I welcome the introduction of a $5 fee. When some thing is thought to be FREE, many people take advantage and abuse the system. The fact is, if you are genuinely sick, $5 is nothing. The other course of action would be to increase the Medicare levy.

Vagabond from Hervey Bay Dc

Great idea, stop all the people looking for something to do.

I had to go to the doctors years ago and spoke to a gentlemen who informed me that he went to the medical centre once a week as a means of talking to people. He actually was not sick.

So if he contributes $5 to the RSL lunch roll, he gets a meal and he can talk to as many people as he likes.

Allows for sick people in need of care to see the doctors.

If the doctors are not fully booked for the day, they may have to cut their salaries a little.

Poor poppers, I thought the medical professionals took care of their patients and their wallets second. Yeh right