Overview

This bill aims to address long NHS waiting lists in England by providing access to private hospital treatment for patients who have waited over a year for NHS care. The government will fund this non-NHS treatment.

Description

The NHS England (Alternative Treatment) Bill mandates the Secretary of State to create a scheme enabling access to private hospital treatment for NHS patients in England with waiting times exceeding one year. The scheme will cover both access to and payment for this non-NHS care. Regulations detailing how waiting times are calculated will be produced within six months of the Act's enactment. These regulations must be approved by both Houses of Parliament. Funding for the delayed treatment will come from NHS England. The bill applies to England and Wales and will come into effect three months after receiving Royal Assent.

Government Spending

The bill will lead to increased government spending, the exact amount of which is not specified. The cost of the private hospital treatment for patients with waiting times of over a year will be covered by NHS England.

Groups Affected

• NHS patients in England: Those waiting over a year for treatment will benefit from access to private healthcare.
• Private hospitals: These facilities will likely see an increase in patients and revenue.
• NHS England: Will bear the financial burden of funding the alternative treatment.
• Taxpayers: Will ultimately fund the increased healthcare costs.

Powered by nyModel