When it comes to shaping the future of the NHS, few voices carry as much weight as Professor Ara Darzi. A world-renowned surgeon, researcher, and health policy expert, Darzi has spent years advocating for smarter, more efficient, and patient-centered healthcare. With reports that he is drafting a 10-year plan for the NHS, we might not expect radical surprises—but we can certainly expect a roadmap that builds on what we already know works. So, what might be in it?
The latest changes to the GP contract for 2025/26, as outlined by the BMA, are yet another disappointment for general practice. While the headline figures might suggest a significant investment, the reality is that this contract fails to address the deepening crisis in primary care. Instead of providing meaningful support to struggling practices, it adds complexity, increases workload, and shifts money around without solving the fundamental issues that GPs face every day.
The 2008 financial crisis remains one of the most significant events in modern economic history. Triggered by reckless lending practices and a collapse in the global banking sector, the crisis left a deep and lasting scar on the global economy. In the UK, the effects of the crash have rippled across society, most notably in the public sector, which has seen extensive cuts in funding for crucial services, including healthcare and social care. While the direct economic damage from the crash is well-documented, less attention has been paid to its enduring impact on public health and social care.
The National Health Service (NHS) has long been considered one of the UK’s greatest achievements. Founded in 1948, it was built on the principles of universal healthcare, free at the point of use. However, in recent years, the NHS has faced mounting pressures, with declining performance, longer waiting times, underfunded infrastructure, and growing staff shortages. While domestic policies play a significant role in shaping the healthcare system, the broader context of global politics and economics cannot be ignored.
