blooreeler, obviously if the doctor writes a certificate, then he believes the person is sick or the doctor is dodgy.
It still doesn't support the "on a whim" theory.
Splinters can lead to serious health issues, including infections, tetanus and death. And the issue would be of greater concern if the person was pregnant. So as much as those "pinheads" grate on your sensibilities at the Emergency Department, it also doesn't support the "on a whim" theory.
If you go to the doctors for a general checkup, and all is okay, would you class that as an "on a whim" visit.
The $5\$6 fee is not going to stop most people going to the doctor, (on a whim or otherwise).
But it could affect those who are less financial and are just scrapping by with kids to support.
It would be a sad day in Australia if the medical well being of a kid is compromised due to a financial decision of $5\$6.
