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RED BOX | STEVE BARCLAY

Steve Barclay: Happy anniversary to our NHS, a source of national pride

The Times

Today we mark the 75th anniversary of the founding of the NHS by celebrating its achievements over the years and reflecting on how our most treasured national institution is there for us when we need it most. We also need to look ahead to ensure the service thrives for the next 75 years and beyond.

Clearly, there are pressures on services, particularly following the pandemic, and as a result of changing demographics and health needs. It is important the NHS changes and adapts in response to this, and improving technology and medical advancements, but this requires constant evolution — not a big bang moment.

I believe the model of the NHS, free at the point of care, is a source of national pride