The NHS changes and you

This week... what is happening now?
The changes to the NHS were in the news a lot. Now they rarely get mentioned. So, what is happening?

The Bill is currently being debated in the House of Lords. And, just for a change, there seems to be some confusion. The Government initially seemed very keen to get the Bill pushed through quickly. They rejected an attempt by Lord Owen to have an important part of the Bill discussed in a select committee. This would have allowed for a proper debate about what role the Secretary of State should have. As we have mentioned before, SignHealth think this is extremely important.

The Government now seems to be saying that they do want to discuss things more, but in private. It is not clear whether time will still be allowed for a proper debate on proposed amendments. You can read the Government's latest position in a letter from Earl Howe.

The Government has put itself in a tricky position because their plans are already being implemented on the ground. Staff in PCTs are losing their jobs, Strategic Health Authorities (SHAs) are being 'clustered', new organisations are being formed - all on the basis that the Bill will be passed as it is currently drafted. The Government does not want any delay.

SignHealth hope that sense will prevail. The NHS can be reformed and improved without this Bill. Doctors can be given new authority to guide commissioning. This can happen with the organisations we already have. Let us hope that the wisdom of our 'learned friends' in the House of Lords can stop the privatisation before it's too late.

More on the changes.

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