Independent investigation of NHS performance: terms of reference
Published 11 July 2024
Applies to England
© Crown copyright 2024
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Summary
The Secretary of State for Health and Social Care has commissioned an immediate and independent investigation of the NHS. It will have a particular focus on assessing patient access to healthcare, the quality of healthcare being provided and the overall performance of the health system.
The Secretary of State has appointed Professor Ara Darzi, Baron Darzi of Denham, to lead the investigation, which will report in September 2024.
Purpose
The investigation will consider the available data and intelligence in order to:
- provide an independent and expert understanding of the current performance of the NHS across England and the challenges facing the healthcare system
- ensure that a new 10-year plan for health focuses on these challenges
- stimulate and support an honest conversation with the public and staff about the level of improvement that is required, what is realistic and by when
Given the speed of the investigation and assessment, we are not envisaging wide-ranging public engagement - that will be built into creating the 10-year plan.
The analysis should seek to shine a light on health inequalities and unwarranted variation in terms of demand for, access to, quality of and outcomes from NHS services across England.
Lord Darzi will receive the full support and co-operation of the Department of Health and Social Care and NHS England in completing his independent investigation.
Timing
The independent investigation will report in September 2024.