The NHS or National Health Service is the name used for the UK’s public health service. It was established in 1948 as one of the major social reforms decided after the Second World War. it was founded upon these main principles. That the services should be comprehensive, universal and free. UK residents are not charged for the treatment they receive. Citizens within the EU containing a European Heath Card can receive emergency treatment at no cost. Along with persons from countries with which the UK has reciprocal arrangements concerning health care.
Funding
The funding of the NHS comes 98.8 percent from general taxation and National Insurance contributions along with donations. The 2008/9 budget roughly equates to a contribution of £1,980 per person in the UK. When Launched the NHS budget was around £437 million however it received more than £100 billion in 2008/2009. 60 percent of the NHS budget is used to pay staff. With a further 20 percent paying for drugs and other supplies.
NHS England initiated a ‘financial reset’ for 2025/26, expecting Trusts to improve productivity by 4%, operate within reduced budgets, and provide evidence of control. Gareth Jenkins from Changeology Group Ltd outlines how the company can help achieve these goals.
UKRI-funded researchers are using AI and Xenon gas imaging to make MRI scans faster, cheaper, and more accurate, improving lung disease diagnosis across the NHS.
UNISON highlights the dangers of NHS outsourcing, urging protection for low-paid staff and stronger measures to safeguard working conditions and patient care.
Researchers have developed an AI stethoscope that discovers heart conditions in 15 seconds, giving NHS GPs a quick and simple tool to spot problems earlier.
The Health Services Safety Investigations Body (HSSIB) has initiated an inquiry into corridor care in NHS hospitals in England, following a campaign by the Royal College of Nursing (RCN).
The Health Tech Alliance explores how looking beyond costs to examine value-based procurement will impact health technology and innovation within the NHS.
University of Manchester research warns that burnout, low job satisfaction, and poor work–life balance could push a third of GPs in England out of patient care within five years.
Expectant mothers in England can now bypass GP visits by completing a simple online form on NHS.uk to self-refer directly to local maternity services, ensuring timely and personalised care.
