Financial Times FT.com

The UK NHS: After a decade of growth, prepare for austerity

By Nicholas Timmins Public Policy Editor

Published: September 30 2009 02:03 | Last updated: September 30 2009 02:03

After almost a decade of unprecedented growth, Britain’s National Health Service faces one of the biggest challenges in its 60-year existence.

Since 2000, the NHS has seen waiting times fall, new services introduced, outcomes improve and distinct – if unspectacular – improvements in patient satisfaction. This has come at a time when spending has doubled in real terms on a health care system that is largely tax-funded, and generally free at the point of use.

You have viewed your allowance of free articles. If you wish to view more, click the button below.

Read this