AOP welcomes Government’s ‘national conversation’ to shape the future of the NHS

Clinicians, experts and the public are encouraged to share views and ideas on healthcare that will shape the Government’s NHS overhaul

The Government has today launched a public consultation to shape its overhaul of the NHS and future plans for healthcare.

Described as the “biggest national conversation about the future of the NHS since its birth” the six-week consultation process will inform the Government’s 10-Year Health Plan, due to be published in the spring 2025.

Adam Sampson, Chief Executive of the Association of Optometrists (AOP) says: “This is a crucial moment for the NHS. Health and care leaders are committed to deliver on the Government’s ambitions to build an NHS fit for the future, and this public engagement marks the first step to real long-term, sustainable change.

“Lord Darzi’s conclusion that the NHS is in a ‘critical condition’ with surging waiting lists, widespread inequity in access and a deterioration in the nation’s underlying health offered a stark picture. We don’t have time to waste: action must be taken now.

“We are encouraged that the Government is willing to take a bold, transformative approach. It is striking that, rather than relying on the usual plethora of established, hospital-dominated policy voices, it is now ready to listen to the public, patients and all corners of the healthcare system, to deliver on their three big shifts in healthcare: from hospital to community, analogue to digital, and sickness to prevention.

“Optometry has so much to offer in each of these pillars. Swift and decisive steps from this Government will help to ensure that the patients are put first and receive the eye care they deserve.”

NHS staff, clinicians and patients are invited to submit their response via the online platform Change.NHS.uk.

As part of the platform, there are specific questions for organisations. To inform the response to Government, the AOP will be consulting with members via an online survey and at an in-person event with its Council. The AOP is also committed to working with other organisations across the sector, as well as in primary care.

The consultation closes on 2 December.