Starmer: NHS Needs Major Reforms to Survive

U.K. Prime Minister Keir Starmer has declared that the National Health Service (NHS) must undergo major reforms or face collapse, following a critical report by former Health Secretary Ara Darzi. The report, which found the NHS in 'critical condition', cited issues such as long wait times, outdated facilities, and high mortality rates. Starmer proposed a 10-year reform plan focusing on digitization, preventative care, and shifting services from hospitals to community settings. He emphasized that no additional funding would be provided without these reforms, criticizing the previous Conservative government for neglect and mismanagement. Health Secretary Wes Streeting and other officials echoed the need for fundamental changes to avoid further decline. The reform plan aims to address current inefficiencies and improve patient access and outcomes.