Health Policy and the NHS

This book offers an in-depth look at the evolution of health policy in the UK, particularly focusing on the NHS and its future direction.

In Health Policy and the NHS, the author provides a comprehensive and timely analysis of the evolving structure and organization of the health service in the UK. The focus is primarily on health policy and the delivery of health services, delving into how various governments have tackled healthcare challenges. Through a detailed examination of policy assumptions, economic factors, and political contexts, the book sheds light on the decision-making processes that have shaped the NHS over the years.

The text is structured into four distinct parts, each addressing a crucial aspect of health policy. The first part lays the foundational framework of the NHS, setting the stage for understanding the subsequent discussions. The second part highlights the key policy issues that dominated the government's agenda until the late 1980s, providing insights into the priorities and challenges of that era. The third part explores the interplay between health and society, examining critiques of health policy that emerged during the late 1970s and 1980s.

Finally, Health Policy and the NHS looks forward, contemplating new directions for health policy in the future. By addressing issues often overlooked by the Government's agenda, the author encourages readers to consider the implications for health policy in the 1990s and beyond. This book serves as both a historical account and a forward-looking analysis, making it a valuable resource for anyone interested in the complexities of health policy in the UK.