Reforming the NHS: Balancing Ideology and Innovation

There’s been no shortage of NHS plans over the years – what needs to be different this time?

Health and care services are facing acute pressures and the NHS tops the public’s list of priorities. The government has pledged to ‘reimagine’ the NHS via a 10-year plan, expected in the spring. 

The pressure is now on to develop a credible reform plan. It will need to address the huge challenges of changing health care needs and capitalise on the opportunities ahead, including those stemming from new technologies. All within a challenging fiscal context. 

So what needs to be in the plan on key priorities – primary care, community services, and improving hospital services? What are the lessons from past NHS plans? And how can policymakers bring front-line staff with them and provide hope their working lives will improve?  

To discuss, our Chief Executive Jennifer Dixon is joined by:

Show notes

The Health Foundation (2024). Public perceptions of health and social care: five findings the new government should know. 

The Health Foundation (2024). The public’s views on the future of the NHS in England. 

Nigel Edwards. The Nuffield Trust (2018). Avoiding groundhog day: learning the lessons of NHS reforms.

The Health Foundation (2025). Health Foundation response to consultation on 10-year health plan.

The Health Foundation. Policy Navigator – NHS reform.