Yes, but

There were a lot of positive changes that were having an impact as a result of the increased spending in the noughties. By 2010 paitent satisfaction levels were at record levels, and services such as NHS Direct were working well. There were issues, usually linked to some frankly potty initiatives to involve the private sector or outsource services, and one significant problem - our ageing demographic - wasn't being addressed. Overall it was in good health. Lansburys reforms and much that has happened since have turned everything upside down, and in the A&E crisis we see the result of failing to deal with the age related demands on the NHS. So in this context, I think it is wrong to imply all political parties are equally culpable.

Posted By: Tressells Broadbrush, Jun 4, 13:53:22