NHS ‘rejuvenated’ by investment

The NHS has been revitalised as a result of investment in the health service over the last decade, it has been claimed.

As the NHS reaches the 60th anniversary of its inception, the Department of Health reports that investment of 29 billion pounds over the past ten years into hospitals, equipment and health centres has played a key role in enhancing services.

A recently published report – Rebuilding the NHS – notes that 4.9 billion pounds has been invested in the construction of 88 major hospitals, with a further 24 currently being built.

Other investment has led to the refurbishment of GP premises, establishment of One Stop Primary Care Centres and installation of modern equipment.

Patricia Hewitt, health secretary, said: “The huge increase in new NHS buildings and state-of-the art equipment means that patients are being treated faster than ever before.

“This is helping NHS staff to reach the 18-week waiting target by the end of 2008, a fantastic goal to celebrate in the NHS’s 60th anniversary year.”

She added that patient choice has been increased in the last ten years, with patients enjoying greater convenience in where and when they access services.

A report published last month argued that the NHS must progress with its continuing programmes for reforms to ensure the highest chances of survival of cancer patients in the UK.