Improving patient outcomes transcends the NHS and requires all healthcare systems to work together to achieve this goal, according to Sir Stephen Powis (pictured), in his final speech as NHS England medical director.
Powis revealed he was leaving his post as NHS England medical director earlier this year.
Delivering his final speech at the Independent Doctors Federation’s Private Practice Conference, Sir Stephen said all of his boxes were packed and he had managed to finish the extensive list of actions in his actions folder.
“I’ve had time to give my very last policy speech today at your conference,” Powis told delegates.
“And a few people have raised their eyebrows that the NHS medical director is giving his last speech at an independent sector conference, but hopefully it reflects that we work very closely with the independent sector.”
Still a believer in the NHS
But Powis added that he remains a believer in the NHS.
“I’m more convinced that a publicly funded health service, free at the point of delivery, available to everybody, rich, poor, whatever your background, is the best way of providing healthcare and an equitable and fair way to as many people as possible,” Powis said.
While adding he remained a “huge believer” in the NHS and the service should be here to stay, he said the independent sector had a key role to play.
“Our commitment to patients transcends just the NHS and it really is important that all healthcare systems; private, social, publicly funded work together,” Powis continued.
“The UK is no different. It really is important for our patient’s sake, we continue to work closely with the independent sector. Patient care transcends those boundaries.”
Expanding private provision
Powis added there were examples of how the NHS has worked effectively with the private sector.
“Coming out of the pandemic, the independent sector worked in partnership with the NHS, to reduce wait times and expand treatment options to deliver the best possible outcomes for our patients,” he said.
Looking ahead to the government’s delivery of its 10-year health plan, Powis maintained that it was important to shape the private aspect of healthcare to encourage innovation including using voluntary channels and the independent sector to drive that innovation and choice.
“We’ve committed to make use of the independent sector to treat NHS patients and the government will be entering discussions with private providers to expand NHS provision – particularly in the most disadvantaged areas,” he continued.
“We know convenient access and more choice are key to improving both service delivery and patient experience.
“And we set that out earlier this year in the elective reform plan.”
The 10-year health plan will deliver these priorities, he added.
“There will be a new choice charter for patients which will again, give more clarity to patients and that will start with the highest areas of need,” he continued.
“The aim is to give patients the ability to make more informed, meaningful choices about how they receive their treatment.”
