As we return towards normality, we have set out an ambitious plan to tackle the pressures and waiting times that have built up in the NHS – with services and care impacted by Covid.
The Government has set out a £36bn programme of investment over the next three years, focusing on four key areas of delivery: increasing capacity, prioritising diagnosis and treatment, transforming the way elective care is provided, addressing health disparities across the country.
One way we can address the backlog is by increasing capacity and the resources available. Last week figures showed that there are more doctors and nurses working in the NHS than ever before, with a record number of students applying to medical school and to train as nurses. But we do need to do more which is why we are increasing capacity by supporting and growing the workforce, including with healthcare support workers and NHS reservists, as well as expanding and separating out elective and diagnostic service capacity.
We are also rolling out at least 100 Community Diagnostic Centres, with 69 already up and running across the country. The NHS will be consulting with a wide range of local stakeholders on the location of future centres. Where appropriate, we will make use of independent sector capacity to support our efforts in tackling the backlog and delivering value for money.
Transforming the way elective care is provided is another priority for the Government - for example by reforming the way outpatient appointments are delivered, making them more flexible for patients and driven by a focus on clinical risk and need. The Government is also increasing the number of operations and procedures that can be delivered through dedicated and protected surgical hubs.
Giving patients more options and information when deciding their treatment options is another important way we can address the backlog. The Government is looking to provide better information and support to patients, supported by better data to help inform patient decisions. Making use of technology can also be a useful tool – such as the NHS App to better manage appointments, bookings and the sharing of information. We will ensure patients have choice about their treatment at the point of referral.
Locally, I continue to work closely with Robert Buckland MP to deliver increased investment to expand the Great Western Hospital. A total over almost £75 million investment is going into the GWH to deliver a new Urgent Care, the new radiotherapy centre and a new energy centre.
Finally, I want to take this opportunity to put on record my thanks and deep appreciation for those who have contacted me their support and encouragement following the completely untrue and scurrilous story written about me in the Sunday Times. I have received so many kind & supportive messages from people I have worked with in the past, from the many fantastic civil servants I worked with as a Minister to the parliamentary staff who have worked for me.
