NHS bosses ‘accept need for change despite financial pressures’

A survey carried out by the NHS Confederation has highlighted pressing concerns among healthcare bosses about the challenges currently facing the sector.

Figures from the poll reveal that 61 percent of NHS chief executives and chairs believe a culture change is vital if the quality of care for patients is to improve, while 40 percent expect that standards will rise over the next 12 months.

However, 62 percent noted that they are facing serious financial pressures at the moment, with more than 20 percent describing these as the worst they have ever faced.

Moreover, 83 per cent believe the pressure on their organisations will increase over the next 12 months, demonstrating the barriers that currently exist for NHS bodies as they seek to reform their operating models.

Mike Farrar, chief executive of the NHS Confederation, said: "Making these changes won't be easy, but as the survey shows, unless we take collective action now, we will all be worse off."

Last month, a report from The King's Fund revealed that instigating a culture change to drive up the quality of care is a key priority for NHS leaders at the moment.