"Cost of prescribed drugs"

This isn't a complaint all I want to comment upon is the service I received when seeing my GP. I've had Psoriasis for over twenty years, I've tried numerous creams and had three courses of light treatment. I accept there isn't a cure and the condition has to be managed.

I read about a new drug available called Enstilar which had positive reports. I understand it can't be utilised on a long term basis but if it helped my legs so I was confident enough to wear a skirt over the summer I would be thrilled.

I went to see my GP who was aware the drug was new but wasn't aware of the cost of the drug and grabbed his mobile phone to attempt to find out the cost. I had to fight with the GP to get a prescription as they tried to persuade to use an ointment I had already used.

Subsequently I asked the Pharmacist at Boots how much the steroid foam costs, the cost is £40. 00 which is only slightly more expensive than the drug I was offered. I have spent hundreds of pounds on creams and T Gel that aren't available on prescription. I'm a tax payer and therefore I don't see why cost should come first before my health, I have spent enough money myself on my condition.

So in the future when GPs have training sessions can it be reiterated that they do not moan about the cost of drugs in front of patients. I do understand there are budget costs to consider but patients have paid into the system.