Under new government plans relatives of poor patients who choose to be treated in hospitals far from home will receive no financial help to visit loved ones.
Under the plans in December 2005 patients will have the choice of being treated at different hospitals around the country. Those on low incomes will be able to claim for travel costs from government funds.
But in a glaring loophole their visitors, even if they are close relatives, will not be able to claim for travel costs.
Critics say it is likely that those who live in deprived areas are less likely to choose a hospital in another part of the country.
Health Minister Rosie Winterton said in a Commons written answer the Government had no details of how much it would cost to reimburse relatives of poor patients.
Liberal Democrat health spokesman Steve Webb said: "This policy is blatantly unfair. Wealthy patients will be at a huge advantage”.
