Root of the problem is the high medical costs when people go to see GPs. The reason GPs existed is because of people lazy to wait long hours / queues at government clinics / hospitals and therefore willing to spend some money to go private GP. Its more convenient also.

So to solve this problem, there are 2 options:-
1. Force private GPs to reduce their charges. So people wont have to pay so much. (Gov no need to spend money)
2. Increase more government clinics / hospitals so the waiting time can be reduced. (Gov have to spend more money)

In the end, Goverment went for option 1.