Abstract
The three core principles of the NHS: that it meets the needs of everyone, that it be free at the point of delivery, that it be based on clinical need not ability to pay, are under threat. Recent policy changes compromise these principles by denying treatment to those in need who cannot pay. This article will give an overview of the policy changes and the impact these have on individuals in vulnerable situations trying to access care, on healthcare staff and our society. Case studies from the Doctors of the World clinic are used to illustrate the effect these changes are having. All names have been changed to protect anonymity.
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