Europe, UK (Commonwealth Union) – The National Health Service (NHS) in the United Kingdom is a publicly-funded healthcare system that provides free medical services to all legal residents. Established in 1948, it has been the cornerstone of the country’s healthcare system for over seven decades. Irrespective of the political affiliation all governments have recognized the importance of the NHS, however in recent years a crisis in the NHS emerged with waiting lists and strikes. Various factors have been attributed to the crisis however the recent pandemic is believed to be one of the key factors.
Health and Social Care Secretary Wes Streeting has called for a comprehensive and impartial review of the NHS to identify the problems affecting the nation’s healthcare system.
Mr. Streeting emphasized the need for a ‘frank and straightforward’ evaluation that will reveal ‘the hard truths.’
On the 11th of July, he appointed Professor Lord Darzi, a lifelong surgeon, innovator, independent peer, and former health minister, to conduct this swift assessment, which is expected to be completed by September.
The government indicated that the results of this review will inform them of the 10-year strategy to fundamentally reform the NHS and develop a healthcare system that meets future needs.
Health and Social Care Secretary Wes Streeting indicated that anyone involved with or relying on the NHS can see it is in a dire state. This government is committed to being transparent about the challenges facing the health service and is determined to address them.
“This investigation will uncover hard truths and I’ve asked for nothing to be held back. I trust Lord Darzi will leave no stone unturned and have told him to speak truth to power.”
Professor Lord Darzi pointed out that as every medical professional and patient is aware, the initial step in tackling any health issue is an accurate diagnosis.
“My work will analyse the evidence to understand where we are today – and how we got to here – so that the health service can move forward.”
