Health service and 'consumers'

Madam, - Mary Harney's article in your edition of July 5th does not once mention "patients"

Madam, - Mary Harney's article in your edition of July 5th does not once mention "patients". It mentions "consumers" many times. This gives a clue to the neo-liberal mindset which sees health as a commodity to be bought and sold. The wealthier you are, the better the service you can buy.

I prefer to see the health system as a social service giving the best available treatment to all who need it. - Yours, etc,

JOHN WILLIAMS, Kilkee, Co Clare.