Why cost must influence thought

“Sir, this patient has a case of cerebral palsy” said the resident after presenting the history and examination findings of a 12 year old boy, poorly built, and in ill kempt, dirty, and torn clothes. By the side of the patient stood his 30 year old father, equally frail, and dressed as poorly as the patient. “What's your line of management?” asked the consultant. The resident replied, “I would like routine blood investigations, renal and liver function tests, and an x ray of the chest and …