A Dunedin pharmacist wants his customers to understand he does not benefit financially from the Government's hike in prescription charges.
To pay for other health services, the Government is increasing co-payment for prescriptions from $3 to $5, from next January.
Wilkinson and Son Chemists owner Warren Leonard said three customers had launched into him since the pre-Budget announcement of the price rise, on Monday afternoon.
The customers were critical of the increase, believing it benefited pharmacies, which was incorrect. There was a misconception among the public that the payments went to pharmacists' coffers, when it was actually a straight transfer to the state.
He believed the misconception was aided by the fact pharmacies were "well presented", which did not mean "rolling in dough".
