ABSTRACT
In order for the NHS to survive and flourish, it needs to think outside the box. Medicine’s social contract, which is an implicit one, needs to be discussed openly with a fair degree of honesty by politicians. Perhaps the best option will be to create an independent board which sets standards and is constituted of key stakeholders including patient experts. The use of modern technologies such as telehealth will be helpful. Health needs to be connected with social care, education, housing, employment and other ministries. Every policy should have health impact assessment. Adequate funding to provide sufficient resources is essential. NHS must have a long-term plan with cross-party support rather than being a political football.
