One reform

Notes

One reform introduced by the Labour government aimed to tackle the giant of Disease. The NHS was introduced and provided medical services such as GP visits, dentists, opticians, and specialist services all free of charge at the point of use. The NHS was ‘universal, comprehensive, and free.’ It also included treatment by GPs and in hospitals and health centres. Despite some early opposition from doctors, 90% took part in 1948. Prescriptions then rose from 7 million per month before the NHS to 13.5 million per month September 1948. This meant the Labour government was effective in meeting the needs of the people as most doctors supported it, which helped as doctors were needed to ensure the NHS could function and was able to remain accessible throughout Britain. They were also effective because everyone, even those on low income or lower classes, were able to access healthcare regardless of their financial situation. This means that across the country, the overall health of Britain was improved. However, the Labour government underestimated how many people would need medical attention and the budget increased from £134 million to £356 million in the first three years. Therefore, the ...