The NHS turns 77 this week.  It has touched the lives of almost every citizen and literally saved lives.

The NHS was the crowning glory of the post-war Labour Government and arguably our country’s greatest achievement. And yet it has fallen from time to time to Labour Governments to save the NHS and to make it fit for the future.

So it was that this week the Government launched a 10 Year Health Plan for England. Not only do we need to ensure better care for patients but also better value for taxpayers. Without both, the funding model of ‘free at the point of use’ may come under irresistible pressure. We are fortunate to have an excellent local Heathcare Trust. We have fantastic staff across the NHS but too often they are let down by bureaucracy and outdated ways of doing things. Change is overdue and the 10 Year plan sets out a blueprint for bringing change.

First it seeks to shift resources from hospitals to the community, making it easier to see a GP, creating new neighbourhood health centres and prioritising care at home. Secondly, better use of new technology to liberate staff from administration to free up more time for patients. Thirdly, to shift a mindset from sickness to prevention. By reaching patients earlier and keeping people healthy it will save money as well as lives. We all have our personal stories of the NHS either our own or of our loved ones. It is about liberating people from suffering, freeing them to live healthier lives. A lofty but necessary ambition.