A group of MPs from different parties have raised concerns about the government’s decision to abolish NHS England without a clear plan for the future. The plan to bring the functions of NHS England into the Department of Health and Social Care has caused uncertainty, with the Public Accounts Committee urging the government to provide a clear plan within the next three months. The government defended its decision, stating that the move would eliminate “wasteful duplication” and that detailed planning has already begun.
In addition to the changes at a national level, local health boards are also undergoing significant restructuring, with around half of their 25,000 staff being let go. The MPs highlighted the substantial amount of money being spent on legal costs for clinical negligence claims, with nearly a fifth of the £2.8bn paid out in 2023-24 going towards legal expenses. They called for more measures to improve safety and reduce these costs.
Committee chair and Tory MP Sir Geoffrey Clifton-Brown emphasized the magnitude of the changes to NHS England and local health boards, describing them as major structural reforms. He stressed the importance of strong decision-making and experienced staff to navigate the challenges facing the NHS during this period of significant pressure. Concerns were raised about the lack of a clear plan for the future, leaving both patients and staff unsure about what comes next.
NHS England, responsible for managing £193bn of public sector money this year with nearly 15,000 staff, is facing significant cuts in staffing as a result of the restructuring. The government expects to save £400m from the reduction in NHS England staff and an additional £700-750m from the cuts to local health board staff. The Department of Health and Social Care reiterated that the changes are aimed at eliminating duplication and improving efficiency, with detailed plans already in progress. The chief executive of the NHS Confederation highlighted that these changes represent the largest reshaping of the NHS in a decade, but expressed concerns about the lack of clarity and alignment with the upcoming 10-year plan for the health service
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