Patients gain when hospital beds are matched to changing needs
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.LETTER : From Dr P. P. Davies
Sir: If the Government had consulted the medical profession in 1990 they wouldn't find themselves today with the situation of an increase in hospital bed usage ("Untried cure kills hospitals", 6 March). Following the 1990 general practice contract and the NHS reforms of 1991, general practitioner stress and workload has vastly increased, according to numerous surveys. This in turn leaves less time to spend with individual patients. The Government also raised the public expectation of what the NHS can deliver and at what speed. The patient's charter has increased the level of complaints and litigation.
Thus, general practitioner stress and workload, patient expectation and fears of litigation have all led to increased demand for hospital admission, which, of course, adds considerably to the NHS budget. If the Government wishes the general practitioner to be the "gatekeeper" of NHS services, it is a pity that they didn't listen to the profession in 1990 and since then.
Yours faithfully,
P. P. DAVIES
Great Yarmouth,
Norfolk
6 March
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments