UK PM Starmer Announces 'Reform or Die' NHS Overhaul After Darzi Report

Sep 12, 2024, 05:44 AM

UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has announced a sweeping reform plan for the National Health Service (NHS) following the release of a damning report by Lord Darzi. The report highlights significant failings in the NHS, including a critical condition of patient health, staff shortages, and prolonged waiting times. Starmer emphasized that the NHS must 'reform or die,' and outlined plans for the biggest overhaul of the health service since its inception in 1948. The reforms are expected to focus on shifting billions from unproductive hospitals to community care, technology, and preventive measures. Health Secretary Wes Streeting supported the call for reform, warning that the NHS could 'go bust' without significant changes. Starmer also noted that the 2010s were a lost decade for the NHS and stressed there would be no more money without reform, highlighting issues such as £5,000 per shift for agency staff and patients typically having 100 people ahead of them in A&E queues. The report and subsequent government response have underscored the urgent need for a reimagined NHS to ensure its sustainability and effectiveness.