The Royal College of Physicians’ (RCP) representation to the Treasury for the government's autumn statement on 23 November 2016. This submission is based on findings from the RCP's report Underfunded. Underfunded. Overstretched. The NHS in 2016.
As outlined in our report, politicians, system leaders and clinicians must rethink the way we deliver healthcare: breaking down barriers between hospitals and the community, and working in partnership with patients to deliver joined-up care. To achieve this, we need a national health service that is funded to meet the needs of our ageing population.
Summary
The delivery of high quality patient care is vital to the long term sustainability of the NHS while ensuring adequate funding, staffing levels and resources are key to making services more integrated, responsive and patient-centred.
Preventing ill health and improving health are amongst the most effective and cost effective ways to ensure our health service is fit for future generations. Cuts to spending on public health will have serious and lasting implications for both the health of communities across England and the long term sustainability of the NHS. Investing in social care will also significantly relieve pressures on the NHS.
The NHS budget has not kept pace with rising demand for services. We need a new NHS budget that:
- meets the demand for health services
- sets realistic targets for efficiency savings
- protects funds for transformation
- invests in the long-term sustainability of the NHS.
Contact
For more information please contact Methela Haque, RCP public affairs adviser on methela.haque@rcplondon.ac.uk