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.
AI in the NHS: The UK's national health service is to deploy AI with £21M investment, accelerating diagnoses for cancers, strokes, and heart conditions, revolutionising patient care.
Innovation for new healthcare technology has been funded toward treatments for Alzheimer’s, cancer and more, with support going to digital hubs and technology-assisted surgery.
The NHS is aiming to become the world’s first net-zero health service by 2040, through reducing the harmful gases it puts into the atmosphere, decarbonising the NHS Estate and reaching an 80% reduction in carbon emissions by 2028 to 2032.
Only one in five NHS Trusts in England provide active bystander training to address workplace harassment – including measures against sexual harassment.
We hear from Rhea Horlock, Head of Corporate Social Responsibility at NHS Property Services (NHSPS), who discusses social prescribing & building for health.
Dr Samantha Walker, Director of Research and Innovation at Asthma + Lung UK, explains why prioritising lung research is the best way to improve the nation’s health.
