NHS staff must become the "best in the
world" at looking after the elderly, Health Secretary Jeremy Hunt has told
the Conservative Party conference.
In his first major speech since taking on the role in the recent reshuffle, he said it was time to change the culture of the organisation. He praised doctors and nurses as "unsung heroes", but added that the NHS should be "honest about failure".
He added: "Since it was set up in 1948 the NHS has come to symbolise a deeply held belief about what it means to be British: a country fit for heroes where everyone should have a roof over their heads, a school for their children and proper treatment for their family when they're sick,” continuing “as we celebrate excellence, we must be honest about failure.
Mr Hunt added: "Last month the Royal College of Physicians published a report about the way older people are looked after in our hospitals. It said 'the system continues to treat older patients as a surprise, at best, or unwelcome at worst'.
"We have many committed managers in hospitals and care homes. But I need to say this to all managers: you will be held responsible for the care in your establishments. You wouldn't expect to keep your job if you lost control of your finances. Well don't expect to keep it if you lose control of your care."
Fine words, but if the system is to deliver Mr. Hunt’s dream, it has a long journey ahead.
Source: BBC News 8/10/12
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