A PSNC statement reads: ‘Many low income families now use mobile phones instead of landlines and consequently face higher costs using 084 numbers.
‘It was therefore recommended that a response be made to the consultation in support of the ban on the use of 084 numbers in the NHS.’
The DoH is considering prohibiting the use of 084 numbers in the NHS and its consultation closes on 31 March.
Earlier this month Healthcare Republic reported that patients are now able to ring hundreds of GP practices for free after BT scrapped the charges to call 0845 numbers. The larger number of practices which use 0844 numbers will be unaffected.
neil.durham@haymarket.com
Editor's blog: Don't let DoH off hook on 084 ban in rush to go green
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