‘The collective principle asserts that ... no society can legitimately call itself civilised if a sick person is denied medical aid because of lack of means.’ - Aneurin Bevan, In Place of Fear (1952).
Like many of you, I have been learning a lot about the history of the NHS this week, as we are bombarded by 75th anniversary programmes, articles and podcasts.
Sadly, the general theme seems to be how much longer can it last? It is interesting to note, however, that this is not a new theme. Indeed, after its launch on July 5, 1948, questions over funding were still hotly debated and, within just three years, a proposal was introduced for the first prescription charges; for dental care and spectacles.
The aim was to save a potential £25m to meet the financial demands imposed by the Korean War. As the toy philosopher Woody would have said: ‘That’s not flying, that’s just falling with style.’
A few weeks ago I announced, with some pleasure, that the UK was able to rejoin the important Horizon programme from which we had been ejected after Brexit. Between 2007 and 2013, the UK contributed £4.3bn towards Horizon and in return we got £7bn in research funding, a £2.7bn excess that represented grants worth more than £300m a year for our scientists.
Alas, I was somewhat premature as it seems the party of opposition to the launch of the NHS is also undecided about accepting the post-Windsor agreement invite to rejoin. The final decision is expected about the time we go to press; all scientists and researchers out their, keep your fingers firmly crossed.
Finally, some good news. I heard from the excellent Simon Rodwell last week who announced that the ACLM Contact Lens Year Book is now free and available online at aclm.org.uk. An essential resource, not least for trainees who may only know the names of own branded products.