Despite having last published a plan in January 2019, and the major disruption caused by Covid to the NHS since, DHSC and NHSE are yet to recognise the scale of transformation needed to make the NHS financially sustainable. The Government’s desire to publish a new 10- year plan is a golden opportunity to take significant decisions for the longer-term benefit of the nation’s health and the sustainability of the NHS. Yet there seems a lack of readiness amongst senior health officials to take th...

Despite having last published a plan in January 2019, and the major disruption caused by Covid to the NHS since, DHSC and NHSE are yet to recognise the scale of transformation needed to make the NHS financially sustainable. The Government’s desire to publish a new 10- year plan is a golden opportunity to take significant decisions for the longer-term benefit of the nation’s health and the sustainability of the NHS. Yet there seems a lack of readiness amongst senior health officials to take the radical steps needed. DHSC’s and NHSE’s approach 3 to NHS finances is typified by short-termism. NHSE needed £4.5 billion in extra funding from the gov Type: conclusion | Number: 2 | Response status: accepted Government response: The government agrees with the Committee’s recommendation. principles set out in ‘Consolidated Budgeting Guidance’ and in agreement with HM Treasury, to meet financial pressures and protect frontline care. The fiscal rules set out by the Chancellor at the Autumn Budget