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3mo ago

MPs Criticize NHS Leaders for Lack of Progress and Financial Mismanagement

A parliamentary report accuses NHS and Department of Health officials of complacency, stalled reforms, and poor financial planning as the health service faces mounting challenges.

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Amanda Pritchard, chief executive at NHS England, was questioned over her handling of the health service

Overview

  • The Public Accounts Committee (PAC) report describes NHS leaders as 'remarkably complacent' and 'out of ideas' in addressing systemic issues within the health service.
  • The NHS overspent by £1.4 billion in 2023-24, with MPs criticizing senior officials for showing a disregard for sound financial planning and delaying budget approvals for local services.
  • Key government ambitions for the NHS, including shifts to community care, digital transformation, and preventative healthcare, are reportedly stalled due to a lack of readiness and urgency among officials.
  • The report highlights that some NHS trusts still rely on outdated technologies like fax machines, and funds intended for digital upgrades have been redirected to cover other deficits.
  • Despite employing 19% more staff since the pandemic, the NHS has only increased patient care by 14%, with MPs questioning the feasibility of achieving promised productivity improvements.