The New Politics of the NHS

Since it was first published more than 40 years ago, The New Politics of the NHS has become established as the key overview of the NHS, its processes and paths of influence, providing a clear, easy-to-read guide to often complex debates. It continues to encompass both the background of the evolution of the NHS since its foundation, providing a picture of its present and future in a more pluralistic - and possibly more financially austere - era in which deference to medical expertise is eroding and information on health and care is far more widely available. It continues to reflect events since the turn of the millennium and under successive government administrations, including strategies for coping with a new, much harsher economic environment. For this eighth edition, Rudolf Klein has been joined by a second author, Martin Powell, with a brand new chapter describing events in the past decade, including the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic added and the conclusions revised. as we look towards the next General Election. Assuming no prior knowledge of NHS politics and systems, The New Politics of the NHS focuses on management, structure, centralisation, funding, economic performance, challenges, current party political debates, interest groups and rationing, and also on the NHS's institutional and cultural continuity as a tax-funded service providing comprehensive, universal health care free at the point of delivery. It is a vital update for all health care professionals, NHS managers, policy-makers and shapers, and those in special interest groups including patient advocacy organisations and remains essential reading for anyone interested in developing a better understanding of modern healthcare delivery.