I agree, though I do think medics are entitled to lecture us about our lifestyles and habits

Is the NHS a charity these days, that rations treatment to the deserving only?

I thought it was paid for by (national) insurance. If you pay your premium you should have the same rights to treatment as everyone else.

So it is partly a charity. That explains a lot about rationing, long waiting lists, etc.

What of those who have never paid? They then smoke, drink and overeat often very unhealthy food at the taxpayer's expense. THEN! they get ill. What of them?

Of course my belief is we shall all receive the same help. Those dangerous sports can often risk other lives in the rescue, too.

How do they get out of paying? People who don't pay the mandatory health insurance in my country get a warning letter. If this has no effect, an insurance is contracted in their name by the authorities and the monthly premium is taken from their bank accounts or deducted from their benefits. No insurance=no treatment, except emergency treatment, and it has to be paid for, even if it means bringing in the bailiffs.

I do believe that those that harm themselves while participating in a sport while unsuitably equipped should make a contribution to their rescue.

If it is taken out of their food and clothing benefits, then it is the same situation as here. THEY are not paying. The state is.

They should all be treated equally though. Especially as it is likely their health will not be so good.

BUT the point here is, should these people be treated if they are self abusing? is a dangerous sport classified as self abuse? They can be mighty dangerous.

I think they should at least be given a choice.

My son enjoys his caving.

He is also part of a Caving and Mountain Rescue team which go out in all weathers and do their bit. Unpaid.

So perhaps its Quid Pro Quo?

I think cavers, climbers,divers, and those who fly are very much in the minority compared to the smokers (of which I was once one), and the overeaters. If you go into any city and look around you cannot fail to see many very obese people, ofetn youngsters, waddling around, often eating as they go.

On a local bus ride I could not help but notice an enormous young woman who ate a huge bun, drank a fruit juice and finished on a very large iced donut in just 5 minutes. I find it very difficult to compare those who have an accident and require help, to those who take no responsibilty for their own health.

There is no easy answer to the question!

If sports injuries were excluded from free NHS treatment then only people who could afford private health insurance would be able to afford to do sport. Daft idea.