ECS response to Lord Darzi's report on the state of the NHS in England
Lord Darzi has conducted an independent investigation into the state of the NHS in England.
Lord Darzi has published his Independent Investigation into the state of the NHS in England. The report covers patient access, quality of care, and the overall performance of the health system and states that the NHS “is in serious trouble”. In particular, the report highlights problems with waiting times, access to GPs, A&E care and treatment for some long-term health conditions, among other issues. It focuses on the fact that the social determinants of health “have moved in the wrong direction over the last 15 years with the result that the NHS has faced rising demand for healthcare from a society in distress.”
Among his conclusions, Lord Darzi highlights the need to shift care closer to home, re-empower patients and simplify and innovate care delivery for a neighbourhood NHS.
The report also highlights the need to ensure social care is treated as an equal partner to the NHS as Lord Darzi’s analysis recognises that health and social care cannot function effectively in silos; they are inter-dependent.
Responding to the Darzi report, Elizabeth Learoyd, Managing Director of Engaging Communities Solutions said:
“We welcome Lord Darzi’s report, which shows the huge challenges faced across the NHS. Lord Darzi’s conclusions highlight the great need to shift care closer to home and re empower patients. The report concludes what those on the frontline services have known for years; the NHS needs decisive action to avert a growing crisis, tackle health inequalities, prioritise prevention and help people stay healthy for longer. His recommendations amplify the need to have a strong Healthwatch network throughout England as through our delivery of effective Healthwatch services, we provide a voice for the people to ensure services are designed and delivered with patients’ needs in mind, and lessons are learnt from patient insights, and feedback collated.
This report is an important start to identifying key issues and I look forward to further engagement on creating long-term sustainable solutions.”
September 2024
ECS delivers seven Healthwatch throughout England. For more information, please visit www.weareecs.co.uk