Labour Unveils 10-Year Plan to Modernize NHS and Cut Waiting Times

Health Secretary Wes Streeting outlines reforms focused on patient choice, digital tools, and community care to address systemic challenges in the NHS.

The proposed reforms aim to reduce waiting times for elective treatments from 18 months to 18 weeks by the end of the current Parliament.
Patients will gain the legal right to choose from five hospitals for treatment, with an upgraded NHS app enabling appointment bookings, test results, and real-time updates.
Plans include introducing 'patient passports' to centralize medical records digitally, streamlining access for healthcare providers while raising privacy concerns.
Smartwatches and other wearable technology will be distributed to monitor chronic conditions remotely, reducing unnecessary appointments and freeing up consultant time.
New neighborhood health centers will consolidate services like physiotherapy, mental health support, and minor injury care to improve accessibility and reduce hospital strain.