Simon
The big conversation
on our nhs
Last month, Just Treatment launched our “Big conversations” campaign where we began speaking to someone in every constituency in the UK about their experience of Coronavirus and the NHS. These conversations will directly feed into the creation of a New Deal for the NHS. This is a people powered campaign and collectively, we can ensure we learn the lessons from Coronavirus, and work together to build a better, stronger future for the NHS and for patients.
What has your experience of coronavirus been?
My experience of coronavirus has been very stressful in that I have been unable to attend appointments relating to an ongoing liver problem and have experienced pain, fatigue and bloating. I have had contact with my consultant and did go into hospital for blood tests and a scan. I am frustrated that so many people are ignoring social distancing rules and this has led to me going out for essentials at times when I know fewer people will be around.
What long term changes for the NHS do you believe are required?
Long term changes for the NHS should include more investment and planning for situations like this, for example around key supplies such as PPE. NHS staff must feel that they are protected and allowed to continue their essential services. They should also be helped with safe transport to work and asked what other support they need, which could vary according to individual circumstances.
Why do you think building a New Deal for the NHS is so important?
A New Deal for the NHS should place people’s care at the center of the strategy. A manifesto that guarantees affordable NHS access to life saving, life extending and pain alleviating medicines and which is free to the public.
Most importantly the NHS should be discerning around who it works with and should move away from being held hostage by monstrously profit driven pharmaceutical companies. The medical innovation model should be replaced with a publicly funded and cooperatively based pharmaceutical model, and we should use the pressure of Crown Use Licensing to force through this change.
