The work of NHS England

MPs will question senior leaders of NHS England in a one-off evidence session covering all areas of the organisation’s responsibilities. The impact on waiting times as a result of changes to budget allocations announced this week by NHS England is likely to be high on the agenda. Questions may consider implications for patients arising from the reallocation of money earmarked to manage winter pressures and cover strike costs. Protections and support for whistleblowers who raise concerns about patient safety are expected to be addressed. A statutory inquiry is considering the effectiveness of governance, external scrutiny and professional regulation following the murder and attempted murder of babies at the Countess of Chester Hospital. The committee is also likely to raise questions about the presence of RAAC in hospitals and those requiring rebuilding, as well as concerns over the New Hospital Programme. Other areas likely to be covered include: clinical implications of implementing Martha’s Rule; progress on the NHS Workforce Plan and support for staff affected by stress and burnout; action to address public concerns about patient data sharing.