News alert / Social care reform
Reforming social care funding in England must be a priority for the next government, a Health Foundation report says. Currently, one in seven people aged 65 and over face care costs over £100,000. The report sets out cost estimates for three options to protect people against the costs of care:
- Providing basic protection for all against some care costs with a Scottish-style model of free personal care in England – could cost an extra £6bn in 2026/27, rising to £7bn by 2035/36
- Protecting people with the greatest lifetime care needs against catastrophic costs by introducing a Dilnot-style cap set at £86,000 – could cost an extra £0.5bn in 2026/27, rising to around £3.5bn by 2035/36
- Introducing an NHS-style model of universal and comprehensive care – could cost an extra £17bn by 2035/36. (See News.)
Related content
The role of the NHS chief finance officer
This draft statement sets out the essential attributes of a CFO, along with key roles and example activities. Feedback is welcome by end July.
Nuffield calls for changes in general practice and dentistry
The next government should prioritise continuity of care in general practice, avoid blanket targets for GP access and reform the dental contract.