Policies and New Reforms to Address the Sustainability of the National Health Service and Adult Social Care in England
The Sustainability of Health Care Systems in Europe
ISBN: 978-1-83909-499-6, eISBN: 978-1-83909-498-9
Publication date: 22 March 2021
Abstract
Purpose: In this chapter, we examine the National Health Service (NHS) and Adult Social Care (ASC) in England, focussing on policies that have been introduced since 2000 and considering the challenges that providers face in their quest to provide a high standard and affordable health service in the near future.
Methodology/Approach: We discuss recent policy developments and published analysis covering innovations within major aspects of health care (primary, secondary and tertiary) and ASC, before considering future challenges faced by providers in England, highlighted by a 2017 UK Parliament Select Committee.
Findings: The NHS and ASC system have experienced tightening budgets and serious financial pressure, with historically low real-terms growth in health funding from central government and local authorities. Policymakers have tried to overcome these challenges with several policy innovations, but many still remain. With large-scale investment and reform, there is potential for the health and social care system to evolve into a modern service capable of dealing with the needs of an ageing population. However, if these challenges are not met, then it is set to continue struggling with a lack of appropriate facilities, an overstretched staff and a system not entirely appropriate for its patients.
Keywords
Citation
Redding, S., Hobbs, R., Nicodemo, C., Siciliani, L. and Wittenberg, R. (2021), "Policies and New Reforms to Address the Sustainability of the National Health Service and Adult Social Care in England", Baltagi, B.H. and Moscone, F. (Ed.) The Sustainability of Health Care Systems in Europe (Contributions to Economic Analysis, Vol. 295), Emerald Publishing Limited, Leeds, pp. 43-60. https://doi.org/10.1108/S0573-855520210000295008
Publisher
:Emerald Publishing Limited
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