Open Access News Health & Social Care News Do big problems mean big opportunities in the NHS? June 7, 2024 image: @SuwanPhoto | iStock As the NHS continues to deal with long waiting lists, staff shortages, and the ongoing effects of the pandemic, Jonathan Patrick believes that now is the time to capitalize on the momentum we saw during COVID and expedite solutions that can help create a better and stronger health system It’s tricky to work in or with the NHS at the moment. Waiting lists are constantly discussed across the media, many people can’t get an appointment with their GP, ambulance services are struggling to meet time targets, and there is more; you’ve already heard it. Like I said, it’s tricky.
Is the good news that it’s not as bad as all that? I’m sorry, but I think it’s probably worse. Those of us who work with the NHS get to see more than makes it onto television. What we’re seeing suggests we’re not yet at the low point.
Last March, the Integrated Care Boards – the ICBs – in England were told that they had to cut their running costs by 30%. Running costs are basically a euphemism for staff. For those who don’t know, the ICBs manage how healthcare is delivered in an area.
You can probably imagine what happened when they received news of the impending staff cuts. A lot of work was put on hold, not least because the demoralised workforce wasn’t sure who’d be left to do what when the exercise concluded. The process has dragged on until thi.
