Health costs biting vulnerable Victorians VICTORIANS living in poverty are struggling to meet the costs of basic health care, a survey suggests. In a survey of more than 300 of their clients, Anglicare Victoria found more than half could not afford dental treatment, while a quarter couldn't pay for prescribed medicine. About 12 per cent couldn't even afford a trip to the doctor. The study also found 12.7 per cent of people in hardship can't afford a substantial meal at least once a day, while 86 per cent would not be able to come up with $500 in an emergency. Report author Dr Sarah Wise said the survey showed government payments to people in need were not keeping up with the rising cost of living. "These are not luxuries that people are missing out on, but basics such as food, shelter and healthcare," Dr Wise said. Dr Wise said people unable to afford medical treatment were at risk of "serious, long-term repercussions." Anglicare Victoria has asked for a $50 a week increase to the unemployment benefit to ease the pressure on people in hardship.