HCPC responds to Lord Darzi report

Christine Elliott, Chair of the HCPC, said:

"Today’s report is a significant moment for the NHS and the wider health system. It highlights many of the challenges they face and issues which must be addressed. We must all heed the warnings in this report and work together to respond.

"The changes outlined today will need the input and support of everyone working in health and care, not just doctors and nurses. The move towards a focus on prevention is welcome and a step that requires better collaboration across the whole system as well as breaking down silo working, improving communication, promoting inter-disciplinary team working. Technology can be a driver of reform and facilitate prevention. It is vital that the contribution and experience of the 340,000 health and care professionals we regulate is at the forefront of any long-term plan.

"Patient safety must continue to be at the heart of every decision, and we must not miss the opportunity to take forward reforms to the wider health system that support that aim. Many of these changes are relatively simple and cheap, but can bear significant fruit in removing blockers, increasing the pace of transformation, and ultimately improving patient outcomes. We are urging the Government to continue the work of the previous Government to review the legislation governing health and care regulators, which will help make these improvements possible. A healthier nation will be more economically productive."