NHS Not Underfunded, Needs Reform for Better Outcomes, Says Expert

Professor Sir John Bell, a prominent clinician, has challenged the notion that the National Health Service (NHS) is underfunded. He asserts that the solution to the healthcare system's challenges lies not in increased funding or staffing, but in more efficient resource allocation.

The NHS, established on July 5, 1948, is currently the fifth largest employer globally, handling over 1 million patients every 36 hours. Despite its size and reach, Sir John points out that the UK allocates more resources to healthcare than several other developed nations, yet achieves poorer outcomes.

This statement comes in the wake of a significant report by Lord Darzi, a surgeon and former health minister. The report highlights that the NHS is in a critical state, with diminishing productivity despite record funding levels. As of 2024, the NHS budget stands at £165 billion, marking a historic high outside of the COVID-19 pandemic period.

Sir John, who has advised multiple governments, emphasized the need for wiser spending of existing funds. He stated, "We need to get better at using the money that is in it." He recalled his early years as a practicing physician when the healthcare service operated with significantly less funding but still managed to achieve reasonable outcomes.

The NHS has faced numerous reforms since its inception, including the introduction of the internal market in the 1990s. Currently, it's grappling with an aging population and rising medical treatment costs. Despite these challenges, the NHS aims to become the world's first net-zero national health service by 2040.

Lord Darzi's report reveals that while hospital staff numbers have increased by nearly one-fifth since 2019, NHS productivity is at least 11.4% lower than it was five years ago. The report also highlights critical issues in accident and emergency care and a lack of progress in early cancer diagnosis between 2013 and 2021.

In response to these challenges, Sir Keir Starmer, the Prime Minister, is expected to deliver a speech emphasizing the urgent need for NHS reform. He is anticipated to state, "We know working people can't afford to pay more, so it's reform or die."

The NHS, primarily funded through general taxation and National Insurance contributions, has been at the forefront of medical innovations, including the first CT scanner and test-tube baby. However, it now faces the complex task of improving efficiency and outcomes without relying on increased funding.

"I think it is not underfunded to be honest. I think we need to get better at using the money that is in it."

As the NHS continues to navigate these challenges, the focus appears to be shifting towards reform and improved resource management rather than seeking additional funding. This approach aims to secure the future of this vital institution that has been serving the UK population for over seven decades.