Working for patients. NHS White Paper. New diagnosis--new prescription

The government will keep all that is best in the NHS. It supports and will not change the principles of the service, which will remain available to all, free at the point of use and financed mainly from general taxation. While the quality of the NHS's clinical care and its response to emergencies is among the best in the world, its organisation has not kept pace with growing demands and rising expectations. Now staff have to be given a more stimulating measure of responsibility coupled with clearer accountability. In the best public and private services local staff are encouraged to take the initiative in responding to local needs. The government will delegate more responsibility to people who work in hospitals, community health and family practitioner services. It wants more choice for patients and greater rewards for those who successfully respond to local needs and preferences.