Tuesday, 30 August 2005
Hon Matt Robson MP, Progressive Deputy Leader
Progressive distribute free prescriptions for better health
The Progressive party's 'prescription' for better health services was distributed to Queen Street shoppers today, by
Progressive candidates, led by Epsom candidate Dr Fatima Ashrafi and Deputy Leader, Matt Robson. It includes a list of
the policies that leader Jim Anderton aims to put on the negotiating table in the next coalition government.
"The Progressive Party is campaigning for no fees for GP visits for those under 18 and those over 65 to ensure they get
the health care they need without being concerned about the cost. Strong primary health care can prevent small ailments
becoming serious making this policy good for the patient and the budget," says Epsom candidate and specialist in
Obstetrics and Gynecology, Dr Fatima Ashrafi.
"Our party also wants to establish a specific fund to invest in reducing hospital waiting lists, deliver free
prescriptions and has a package of measures to reduce the harm caused by the misuse of alcohol and other drugs.
"Before the election I had a bill at select committee to implement a package of measures to turn the tide against our
youth binge drinking culture including stricter TV liquor broadcasting rules, a rise in the minimum alcohol purchasing
age and toughen laws against the supply of alcohol to minors. I will advocate for a new government to take this bill
over," Progressive deputy leader Matt Robson said.
"In the last three coalition budget rounds, Progressive secured additional funding to extend drug education and
demand-reduction programmes, as well as increased investment in treatment services for those suffering from alcohol and
other drug addictions," said East Coast Bays candidate, a senior registered nurse, Fiona Beazley.
The Progressive Party supports all measures to lower financial barriers to access to quality public health services and
opposes income and asset testing for the families of those in long-term geriatric care.
Progressive candidates are campaigning for party votes exclusively and its party list includes a number of health
professionals.
Epsom: Fatima Ashrafi, a specialist in Obstetrics and Gynecology http://www.progressive.org.nz/fatimaashrafi
East Coast Bays: Fiona Beazley, senior registered nurse with Waitemata District Health Board
http://www.progressive.org.nz/fionabeazley
Otaki: Dr. Russell Franklin, studied medicine at Otago University before undertaking post-graduate training at Dunedin
Hospital and at hospitals in Melbourne and London http://www.progressive.org.nz/RussellFranklin
Tauranga: Dr Karandeep Lall, a medical doctor born in Kenya and educated in northern India, works for the Taupo Hospital
and runs a low-cost community medical clinic in Rotorua.
Progressive Health Policy: http://www.progressive.org.nz/modules.php?name=Sections=viewarticle=188
Health-Related Fitness, Sport, Recreation & Play Policy: http://www.progressive.org.nz/modules.php?name=Sections=viewarticle=186
Progressive's Alcohol Harm Reduction and Anti-drugs Campaign: http://www.progressive.org.nz/modules.php?name=Sections=viewarticle=75
ENDS