NHS Confederation policy director Nigel Edwards said the coalition's programme for government suggested considerable change for the NHS with much detail still to be worked out

Nigel Edwards, director of policy, NHS Confederation, said:

"Today's announcement represents a considerable change in direction for the way the NHS is run, funded, and is held accountable and it is clear that there is a great deal of detail that will need to be worked out.

"The changes to the way PCT boards and chief executives are appointed are interesting and could help to make local decision making feel more transparent and accessible. But that new approach will need to work with the new NHS board and be balanced with national priorities, not least the need to find £20 billion of savings in the next four years.

"The service should be under no illusion, the changes as set out today in areas like regulation, the GP contract and out-of hours care represent a considerable shift for the NHS and the challenge now will be to rise to the challenge presented by this new agenda and work to understand its implications.

"The emphasis placed upon both public health and mental health issues in the document is also welcome and will hopefully reflect a commitment which will continue throughout the lifetime of this government."

Source
NHS Confederation