Health Secretary Wes Streeting has described the NHS as
“broken but not beaten,” firmly advocating for the reform of the healthcare system during his efforts to engage the private sector to aid recovery and transformation. Streeting's remarks arrived alongside the impending release of a pivotal report authored by Lord Darzi, which is expected to underline significant issues within children’s healthcare, vaccination rates, and rising hospital admissions related to mental health and eating disorders.
During discussions with the media, including Sky News, Streeting emphasized the need for practical changes to the NHS, claiming, “if we don’t change the way the NHS works as a system, then we will continue to see a heavy price for failure.” He argued for the necessity of investing not only more money but also implementing effective reforms.
Streeting pointed out three fundamental shifts required to make the NHS functional for the future. These include transitioning from hospital-centric to community-based care, enhancing the role of primary care and mental health services, and incorporating digital technologies to advance treatment and reduce systemic inefficiencies. He insisted on the significance of preventative care, stating, “We pay a very heavy price for society’s sickness,” and emphasizing the benefits of keeping people healthy rather than merely treating illness.
With NHS figures indicating more individuals are opting to pay for services out of pocket due to waiting lists, Streeting recognized this trend as creating a “two-tier system.” He asserted this predicament must change, advocating for the use of private healthcare to alleviate current strains on public services. “There’s nothing about my center-left principles… I’m willing to see working-class people waiting longer,” he stated, making it clear he is not willing to tolerate inequality within healthcare access.
While defending his approach, Streeting faced criticism from Conservative counterparts. Shadow Health Secretary Victoria Atkins accused Streeting of using Lord Darzi’s review as justification for potential tax increases. She raised concerns over Labour’s transparency concerning previous fiscal policies and urged for more straightforward discussions about the NHS.
Streeting has not shied away from endorsing the idea of leveraging private healthcare, actively engaging previous health authorities for advice and support. This led to some skepticism surrounding his motives, particularly among political rivals who worry this shift could detract from NHS resources.
This wasn’t his only notable encounter recently. Streeting also defended sharing documents with former Labour Health Secretary Alan Milburn during his tenure. He told GB News, “I’m not remotely embarrassed or apologetic about having Alan Milburn involved... my advisor… nothing commercially sensitive, nothing inappropriate.” Aiming to differentiate his government’s principles from the previous Conservative government, he highlighted encouraging collaboration within the health sector.
On the topic of Lord Darzi, who has recently published his review on children’s healthcare, Streeting praised him as an independent expert, lauding his long experience and deep commitment to the NHS as foundational to reform efforts. He mentioned the urgency required by the current health climate, noting the report's findings would reveal the depth of the current healthcare crisis.
Streeting's declaration and planned four-step action plan aim to address NHS challenges. The report from Lord Darzi is expected to serve as the basis for his proposed reforms, paving the way for what he hopes will be necessary and impactful adjustments to the healthcare system.
The Labour Party seems poised to shift public health strategy direction, with Streeting at the helm, determined to make the NHS not only recover but thrive. By engaging with both the private sector and historical insights, Streeting believes the NHS can evolve to meet contemporary challenges, ensuring it continues to serve generations to come. The dialogue surrounding health and well-being remains at the forefront as this story continues to develop.
