Sir, – The initial draft contract proposed for GPs to provide services under the free scheme, includes a “gag” clause. This prohibits GPs from making comment that might undermine the HSE. An important part of the role of a doctor is to advocate for the patient, and this may involve criticism of the HSE or others. It would appear that the HSE is above all concerned with protecting its reputation.
I will not be signing any contract which requires me to be silent in a situation where the patients are at risk. What is the HSE afraid of? – Yours, etc,
Dr CLAIRE GAUGHRAN,
Main Street,
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Carrigaline, Cork.