I hold no brief whatsoever for Patientline, but the system has enabled Radio Leighton, the hospital station I'm involved with in Crewe, to broadcast in high quality stereo on a system far superior to the old 'earphone' system at (as far as I know) no charge to the hospital or the radio station. All the radio services on Patientline are free and there is no compulsion to join the full service.
I realise this is a side issue and in no way excuses or justifies the exorbitant price increase, but thought I should point out that things with Patientline are not all negative.