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.
Oxford research reveals that underweight children incur healthcare costs comparable to those with obesity, challenging current health priorities and highlighting the need for comprehensive weight management strategies.
New Nuffield Trust research shows significant regional variation in NHS Continuing Healthcare, with access and funding often depending on where patients live, highlighting a postcode lottery in care provision.
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.
