Make reform a social challenge - The HSE

IN July 2014, London marked the opening of the Olympics with an extravaganza widely recognised as a considerable cultural and political achievement. 

It encouraged Britain to show its best face to the world. It celebrated Britain’s contribution to the industrial revolution, the country’s literary heritage, popular music and culture. It included a striking, and very proud celebration of the National Health Service.

The NHS was established in 1948 when Britain was still reeling from WWII. It was a statement of intent, of philosophy, of recognised social obligation. It was to be, and is, a project to signify that decency and humanity had indeed prevailed. If the Olympics were to open in Dublin in a few months time, rather than in Rio de Janeiro, it is unimaginable the HSE would feature in any celebration. Rather than being a symbol of social achievement our system is a constant and expensive challenge. Minister after minster charges at the ramparts but achieves only a fraction of what was intended. Myths prevail. A comparative survey of the NHS found we have more nurses per head capita than most countries.