The Royal College of Physicians has responded to the Prime Minister's Labour Party conference speech in which he committed to establish a National Care Service.
Professor Mumtaz Patel, president of the Royal College of Physicians, said:
‘We welcome the prime minister’s commitment today to establish a National Care Service. Physicians see first-hand the consequences of an overstretched social care system. Too many people go without the support they need, while patients who are medically fit to leave hospital remain in beds because the care they need is not available in the community. We now urge the government to set out detailed plans for how a National Care Service will operate and work alongside the NHS.
‘We also welcome the prime minister’s focus on addressing the wider factors that drive ill health. Physicians are increasingly treating patients whose health has been harmed or worsened by poor housing conditions, including damp and mould. Prevention must be at the heart of efforts to improve the nation’s health. Taking action on the causes of ill health before people become seriously unwell can improve lives, reduce health inequalities and ease avoidable pressure on health and care services.’