Health Secretary’s commitment to patient choice welcomed

HEALTH and social care secretary Wes Streeting’s has reaffirmed a commitment to patient choice and the use of the independent sector to deliver NHS services.

Speaking at the Labour party conference, Mr Streeting said that the government’s 10-year plan for the NHS would give all patients – rich and poor alike – the same choice, information and control over their treatment.

‘Starting in the most disadvantaged areas, we will ensure patient’s right to choose where they are treated and we will build up local services so it’s a real choice. Where there’s capacity in the private sector, patients should be able to choose to go there too, free at the point of use paid for by the NHS because working people deserve to be treated on time just as much as the wealthy.’

Mr Streeting’s comments have been welcomed by Newmedica, which provides a range of NHS ophthalmology pathways via its 34 locations in England and is continuing to open new eye surgical centres to ensure timely access to treatment for patients and support the NHS.

Ophthalmologist Nigel Kirkpatrick, clinical director at Newmedica, welcomed Mr Streeting’s comments. ‘Access to timely treatment care is vital for all patients, and the independent sector plays an important role in providing choice for patients.

‘We also welcome ministers’ supportive comments about the role of primary care optometry and connected networks of health providers. Newmedica supports collaborative working between ophthalmology and optometry as a means to bring care closer to home for patients whilst ensuring clinical standards remain excellent .’

‘Having worked with the NHS for 17 years, we will continue to deliver excellent and sustainable patient care.’