Friday, June 24, 2005

Doctor Feelgood

Several days ago, one of the South China Morning Post (no link) front page stories reported that some doctors in Hong Kong were suspected of receiving kickbacks from specialists for referrals. And that private hospitals offered 'sweeteners' to specialists to ensure a steady flow of patients.
It also came to light that last year the ICAC investigated two general practioners and a surgeon -- but the case was dropped after the Department of Justice vetoed prosecution, citing insufficient evidence.
The Hong Kong Medical Council is now appealing to people to come forward if they have information.
While they are it, maybe the Medical Council could take a look at the private doctor who sold Nancy Kissel -- she of Parkview milkshake murder trial -- ten tablets of Rohypnol for HK$4,705. That's HK$470.50 a tab. If that's not murderous profiteering, what is?
Private doctors? A plague on them! Me? I'll stay with Hong Kong's low-cost, excellent public health system.

Some doctor songs:
(I Told) the Witch Doctor -- Alvin and the Chipmunks
Doctor Dick -- Lee Perry
Doctor, Doctor (Can't Stand the Size of Your Needle) -- Prince Buster
Doctor Robert -- The Beatles
Dear Doctor -- The Rolling Stones
The Witch Doctor Life -- Captain Beefheart And His Magic Band
Doctor my Eyes -- Jackson Browne
Bad Case of Loving You (Doctor, Doctor) -- Robert Palmer
Doctor Doctor -- Thompson Twins

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