State of Healthcare 2008
On 10 December, we published our fifth and final report to Parliament on the state of healthcare in England and Wales. We looked at the progress made in healthcare since 2004 and the challenges ahead. We also focused on how six key areas of care were provided to and experienced by patients in 2008. To view our six pictures of healthcare, click on the links below.
A picture of health and healthcare in the community
Primary care trusts (PCTs) play a key role in preventing illness, promoting good health and helping people with health problems to enjoy the best possible quality of health and wellbeing. Most people's experiences of the NHS take place in the community, so PCT performance is particularly important.
A picture of urgent care and care in hospital
Most of us rarely need urgent treatment or treatment in hospital, but are likely to at some point in our lives. The speed with which the NHS responds to accidents and emergencies has improved, but some urgent and emergency services provided by different organisations could still work together better.
The picture for mothers
The safety and quality of maternity services is a key issue for the NHS. The number of births in England and Wales has risen sharply in recent years and this, together with social changes relating to pregnancy, is putting pressure on maternity services everywhere.
The picture for children and young people
Parliament has given the Commission a special duty to promote the rights and welfare of children and young people. While most children are healthy, those living in more deprived areas are likely to experience poorer health, and some healthcare organisations still need to make child protection a priority.
The picture for people with mental health needs
Many people will, at some time, experience a mental health problem. We have looked closely at mental health services and, while we have developed a good understanding of the quality of care offered by NHS providers of mental health care, particularly for adults of working age, there are some important gaps that need to be addressed.
The picture for people with a learning disability
Historically, people with a learning disability have experienced worse health than other people. How well healthcare services can understand and meet the needs of these people, and improve their health, is a key test of their ability to care for the population as a whole.
State of Healthcare 2008 - Full report
State of Healthcare 2008 - Summary report
Welsh State of Healthcare 2008 - Summary report: Cyflwr Gofal lechyd 2008 - Crynodeb
The big picture
The national context of our report, including improvement in people's health, investment in the NHS, performance by the NHS overall and in the independent healthcare sector.
Assurance and reassurance
A look at how well healthcare providers are meeting the Government's standards and targets, at the safety of care, and at the fight against infections associated with healthcare.
How does it feel for patients?
What is the patient's experience when using today's health services? An in-depth look, focusing on what patients have told us in national surveys.
