NHS England Chief Faces Criticism Over Reforms, Funding Cuts

Amanda Pritchard, the chief executive of NHS England, is facing significant criticism from MPs for her lack of 'drive and dynamism' in implementing necessary reforms amid growing challenges for the health service. This scrutiny follows a damning report from the Public Accounts Committee, which labeled health leaders as 'remarkably complacent' and suggested they are major barriers to improvement. During a recent session of the Commons Health and Social Care Committee, Pritchard and her colleagues provided vague responses to questions about productivity and reform, further frustrating committee members. Layla Moran, the committee chair, expressed disappointment, stating that the session was an opportunity for NHS leadership to demonstrate their commitment but fell short. Wes Streeting, the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, emphasized the need for the NHS to adapt to financial realities as it seeks to fulfill patient needs. This comes at a time when the NHS is under pressure to improve services and reduce waiting times, with ambitious targets set for the near future.