Report reveals NHS variations
The standard of healthcare provided by the NHS varies notably across the UK, according to a new study by the Health Foundation.
The report finds differences in waiting list times across the UK, with patients in Wales and Northern Ireland having to wait longer for operations than those in England and Scotland.
In September 2004, less than ten per cent of patients in England and Scotland had waited in excess of six-months for treatment, compared to 36 per cent in Wales. The report also warns of an increasing health wealth gap between rich and poor.
Foundation chief executive Stephen Thornton said the report was groundbreaking as it was the first to investigate and compare the impact of devolution on the NHS across Britain.
The Department of Health welcomed the report, stating: “There are significant benefits from knowing this information as it provides a basis for improving the quality of healthcare and performance.”
