There needs to be a step-change in devolution within the NHS or else its long-term sustainability will be put at risk, think tank says.
A new report by Localis argued more NHS funding should be raised and controlled locally, with local NHS and local government leaders devolved total control of health budgets.
The think tank recommends local areas negotiate health devolution deals with the Government that empower local leaders to drive integration, transformation and financial sustainability in their local health and care economies.
One of the report’s key recommendations is the devolution of a number of revenue raising measures to local areas, including powers to increase the social care precept above 2% and establish devolved health taxes.
It also suggests local authorities be given the opportunity to rationalise all local NHS estates into one body.
Localis surveyed over 100 key NHS and local government stakeholders and found 78% of respondents said devolving control of the total local health budget would make a positive difference to making their local health and care economy better, integrated and more sustainable over the course of this parliament.
‘As our research makes clear the centralised nature of the health service is neither sustainable nor desirable in the 21st century,’ interim chief executive of Localis Jack Airey said.
‘The NHS should therefore be front and centre of the next round of devolution deals, with local leaders empowered with the necessary financial flexibilities needed to drive sustainable transformation in their area.’
Welcoming this report, the mayor of London Sadiq Khan said: ‘This report is further evidence that devolution is crucial for London, and all our cities and neighbourhoods, to take back control of their own destinies.
‘Providing NHS leaders with greater flexibility and ownership over their services will help them to better meet local demands and manage the health of their communities.’
