We have believed for many years that public health measures are far more important than medical care as far as improving the health of the population. But the performance of the NHS is important to individuals who need treatment. The fact that treatment is free protects people who have few resources from worrying about the need to find money at a point when they are particularly vulnerable. It is important politically. If people who can afford to pay for private treatment lose confidence in the NHS and opt out then we may all suffer.
Opinions about the NHS: GP patient surveys: your doctor, your experience, your say 2007; National survey of adult inpatients 2006, Guardian ICM Poll October 2006. YouGov poll March 2005. UK Polling reports on party preference in respect of health.
25/04/08