The Government has argued that there is a need for 'even sharper reforms' of public services in the new strategy document, Building Britain's Future.
While much of the chapter on public services covers achievements made over the past twelve years, there is also an acknowledgement of the need for ‘even sharper reforms’ in a period of constrained public finances.
NHS patients will be provided 'enforceable rights' to hospital treatment within eighteen weeks, access to a cancer specialist within two weeks of referral and free health checks for those aged between 40 and 74.
Primary Care Trusts are expected to facilitate treatment from an alternative provider if necessary, either directly or by allowing patients to choose themselves.
The Government will also give further consideration to extending these rights to areas such as dentistry, out of hours GP services, the provision of individual budgets and the choice to die at home.
More details from the Department of Health are expected soon and will be available on this website.