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04/04/2003
MPs rebel over foundation trust proposals
The government, which faced a backbench revolt over its military policy in Iraq, is set to suffer another embarrassing backlash from MPs this time on domestic policy.
The issue of NHS Foundation Trusts has so outraged parliamentarians that up to 130 MPs have signed a motion condemning the plans. The mounting disquiet over the plans is expected to see Health and Social Care Bill put back until after Easter.
Many MPs fear that the NHS Foundation hospitals will create a two-tier health system - ultimately running contrary to the NHS ethos of equity - through backdoor privatisation. However, the government believe the reorganisation of the trusts will enhance local accountability and improve services.
According to the plans, well-managed hospitals which achieve NHS Foundation Trusts will become independent of government control and be able to seek private money to fund services. The government has said that such trusts will treat NHS patients "according to NHS principles and NHS standards, but they will be controlled and run locally, not nationally".
The issue of NHS Foundation Trusts has so outraged parliamentarians that up to 130 MPs have signed a motion condemning the plans. The mounting disquiet over the plans is expected to see Health and Social Care Bill put back until after Easter.
Many MPs fear that the NHS Foundation hospitals will create a two-tier health system - ultimately running contrary to the NHS ethos of equity - through backdoor privatisation. However, the government believe the reorganisation of the trusts will enhance local accountability and improve services.
According to the plans, well-managed hospitals which achieve NHS Foundation Trusts will become independent of government control and be able to seek private money to fund services. The government has said that such trusts will treat NHS patients "according to NHS principles and NHS standards, but they will be controlled and run locally, not nationally".
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04 January 2005
Five further health trusts make foundation grade
Following approval by the independent regulatory body, five Trusts have been granted Foundation Trust status.
Five further health trusts make foundation grade
Following approval by the independent regulatory body, five Trusts have been granted Foundation Trust status.
26 March 2007
'Postcode lottery' remains in NHS dental care
There are "huge regional variations" in NHS dental care in England, consumer organisation Which? has warned in new research. The survey of 466 dentistry practices - which comes a year after the start of new NHS dentists' contract in England - found that just over a third (36%) are taking on any new NHS patients.
'Postcode lottery' remains in NHS dental care
There are "huge regional variations" in NHS dental care in England, consumer organisation Which? has warned in new research. The survey of 466 dentistry practices - which comes a year after the start of new NHS dentists' contract in England - found that just over a third (36%) are taking on any new NHS patients.
24 May 2005
Trials for prostate cancer drugs announced
Scientists have announced that they are testing new drugs that could be used to treat advanced prostate cancer. Currently, advanced prostate cancer is treated with hormone therapy. However, this only works for a short period of time, after which there are few other options for the patient, apart from palliative care.
Trials for prostate cancer drugs announced
Scientists have announced that they are testing new drugs that could be used to treat advanced prostate cancer. Currently, advanced prostate cancer is treated with hormone therapy. However, this only works for a short period of time, after which there are few other options for the patient, apart from palliative care.
08 October 2003
First wave of hospitals apply for foundation trust status
The government has revealed that 32 three-star NHS Trusts have completed the first stage of the application process to become NHS Foundation Trusts.
First wave of hospitals apply for foundation trust status
The government has revealed that 32 three-star NHS Trusts have completed the first stage of the application process to become NHS Foundation Trusts.
14 May 2003
29 hospitals apply for foundation trust status
It has been revealed that 29 hospitals have applied for the controversial NHS foundation trust status. The hospitals will submit their applications by autumn 2003 and the government is expected to make its decision on which can be given the green light by April 2004.
29 hospitals apply for foundation trust status
It has been revealed that 29 hospitals have applied for the controversial NHS foundation trust status. The hospitals will submit their applications by autumn 2003 and the government is expected to make its decision on which can be given the green light by April 2004.
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Northern Ireland WeatherToday:After a dry start this morning rain will spread from the northwest across all parts. This afternoon will be dull with some patchy rain and drizzle. Becoming much milder through the afternoon. Maximum temperature 11 °C.Tonight:A cloudy evening and night with a little light rain or drizzle, perhaps some clear periods developing along the east coast. A very mild night everywhere. Minimum temperature 10 °C.
