Introduction
I’m Stephen Dorrell, former Secretary of State for Health and Chair of Public Policy Projects, and I am thrilled to share with you some insights from a recent episode of the Voices of Care podcast. In this blog post, let’s explore the challenges and opportunities facing the health and care sector.
Public Policy Projects and Bridging the Gap
At Public Policy Projects (PPP), our mission is clear – we are an independent policy agency working at the interface between the public and private sectors. We aim to bridge the gap between policy aspirations and on-the-ground implementation. In the policy context, many discuss how the world could be better, but there are fewer working on the hard edge of delivering those aspirations. That is where PPP steps in.
The Workforce Challenge
One of the key issues explored in the podcast is the workforce challenge, especially as the NHS celebrates its 75th anniversary. At a time when there are over 43,000 vacancies in the nursing profession, I believe we should focus on helping to create a well-staffed and motivated health and care sector as being key to being able to deliver any health policy. To achieve this, we need to focus on addressing the practicalities of health and care services, to ensure that the health and care system can provide for the public and contribute toward a longer lifespan for them. It is also crucial to foster a culture within the health service that reflects the commitment and ideals of those on the front lines.
Public Confidence and Staff Satisfaction
Discussing the decline in public satisfaction with the NHS, we touched upon the importance of addressing access problems, waiting times, and financial pressures in social care. The workforce is the backbone of our health and care system, and retaining staff is a complex and pressing challenge. We must recognise the transformation of idealistic recruits into cynics and work towards creating a context like their initial commitment.
Funding and the Health and Care Act
The Health and Care Act, particularly the integration of care systems (ICS), is a significant milestone. I see ICS as a major opportunity, born out of the sector itself and endorsed by both major political parties. This alignment ensures the continuity of ICS development, providing a more integrated and locally focused approach to health and care delivery.
Retaining and Motivating the Workforce
Retaining and motivating the workforce is a critical aspect of health and care delivery. It requires a cultural shift, engagement with the workforce, and the adoption of innovative approaches to training. We must align the skills and ideals of health and care professionals with the realities of their work to ensure fulfilment and commitment to their roles.
International Recruitment and Responsible Global Citizenship
Regarding international recruitment, I emphasised the need for a global approach and responsible behaviour as good citizens in the global health community. It is vital to avoid exacerbating other countries’ health and care workforce shortages for our benefit and instead work towards a collaborative and responsible global health and care system.
Growing the Workforce and Technology
In terms of growing the workforce, we must learn from international experiences and adopt innovative approaches. A cultural shift within the health service is crucial, and technology can play a pivotal role in enabling professionals to work to the best of their abilities across the whole health and care system. Virtual care and home-based health and care delivery can make an important contribution and we need to embrace these advancements.
Key Priorities for the Future
In a thought experiment, Suhail and I discussed key priorities if I were to be Secretary of State again. A cultural change within services, both at the local and central levels, is paramount. We should focus on health outcomes, provide a policy context, and grant autonomy to local leaders, moving away from micromanagement.
Conclusion
As we navigate the future of health and care, my insights underscore the importance of a cultural shift, responsible global citizenship, and technological innovation. By fostering a collaborative, innovative, and globally aware health and care system, we can address the challenges ahead. Stay tuned for more engaging conversations on the future of health and care in the Voices of Care blog.
