Health On The Line

Public satisfaction with the NHS is at an all-time low according to the latest data, but what can be done in the short term to improve matters while NHS leaders try to make long-term change? Rachel Power of the Patients Association* and Leonora Merry of the Nuffield Trust delve into the data with Matthew Taylor and suggest what can be done. This episode’s Leader in Six is with Steve Williamson, chief executive of Royal Cornwall Hospitals NHS Trust.*The Patients Association's free helpline provides specialist information and guidance across all four UK nations to help service users make sense of health and social care. Call 0800 345 7115 weekdays 9:30am – 5:00pm, or email helpline@patients-association.org.uk

Huge change in health and care: Integrated Care Boards must cut their budgets by 50%, and acute providers are expected to roll back 50% of corporate cost growth since 2020. This on top of NHS England winding down within two years and transitioning what remains into the Department for Health and Social Care. Matthew talks to two leaders navigating these challenges; Amanda Sullivan, Chief Executive of Nottingham and Nottinghamshire ICB and Foluke Ajayi, CEO of Airedale NHS Foundation Trust and Vice Chair of the NHS Confederation. 

Matthew’s joined by Richard Sloggett, founder and programme director at Future Health, for a deep dive into the significant recent changes in NHS leadership. The discussion highlights the evolving dynamics between NHS England and the Department of Health and Social Care, the challenges posed by financial constraints and the importance of local leadership in implementing change.  Plus, a Leader in Six with Sarah Coltman-Lovell, York NHS place director.  

Matthew Taylor speaks with Sally Warren, director general at the Department for Health and Social Care, about the upcoming NHS ten-year health plan. They discuss the engagement process with the public, the challenges and opportunities in transforming healthcare, and the importance of collaboration with community partners. Sally shares insights from public feedback and addresses cynicism towards the plan. Plus, another Leader in Six with Prem Singh, chair of University Hospitals of Derby and Burton NHS Foundation Trust.  

Matthew Taylor and Bill Morgan, former Downing Street health policy advisor, discuss the recent NHS planning guidance, focusing on the government's priorities - particularly the emphasis on elective performance. They explore the implications of A&E targets, financial challenges, and the evolving relationship between NHS leadership and government – as well as the critical elements needed for a successful ten-year health plan.  Plus, another Leader in Six with Andrew Moore, chair of University Hospitals of Leicester and University Hospitals of Northamptonshire NHS Trusts.  

Matthew Taylor is joined by Dr Katharine Halliday, president of the Royal College of Radiologists, to discuss the critical role of radiology in healthcare, the workforce challenges faced by the profession and the transformative potential of technology and AI in improving diagnostic processes. He also speaks to BBC health correspondent Nick Triggle about the broadcaster’s approach to health stories.  Plus, our Leader in Six is with Stacey Hunter, group chief executive for North Tees and Hartlepool NHS Foundation Trust and South Tees Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust.  

Matthew Taylor’s joined by Sarah Woolnough, chief executive at The King’s Fund, and Harry Quilter-Pinner, executive director at the IPPR, to discuss the challenges and opportunities facing the NHS as it approaches its ten-year plan. They explore the importance of access to care, the need for a focus on prevention and the potential for a mission-driven government to reshape health policy. The discussion highlights the barriers to effective health investment and the necessity for innovative approaches to improve health outcomes and financial sustainability. We also hear from Hazel Cheeseman, chief executive of ASH, on issues surrounding the government's tobacco and vaping legislation. Plus, Simon Ashton, chief executive of Newham Hospital, joins for another round of ‘Leader in Six’.  

In this episode, Matthew Taylor and HSJ Editor Alastair McLellan discuss the complexities of NHS leadership, the role of managers, and the impact of health policy narratives. They explore the challenges of reporting on NHS management – including insights on the HSJ's own approach. Matthew’s also joined by Anna Parry, MD of the Association of Ambulance Chief Executives, to talk winter waiting times. Plus, Dorset ICB Chief executive Patricia Miller steps up for another round of Leader in 6.  And we'd love to hear your thoughts on our podcast. Please take five minutes to fill in this short survey: https://www.nhsconfed.org/HOTL 

In this week’s Health on the Line, Matthew speaks to Stephanie Cartwright, Group Director of Place for Walsall Healthcare NHS Trust and the Royal Wolverhampton NHS Trust, leading the place based partnerships in the Black Country ICS. Steph talks about the power and potential of work at Place level and what’s happening in her area, as well as the new report published by the NHS Confederation on the State of Integration at Place.Matthew also brings us another of his quick fire 'Leader in 6' interviews with Tracey Bleakley, ICB CEO for Norfolk and Waveney.We'd love to hear your thoughts on our podcast. Please take five minutes to fill in this short survey: https://www.nhsconfed.org/HOTL