Hospitals Fear Not Meeting Targets due to Cuts

The NHS is facing challenges in meeting its efficiency savings target by 2015, with concerns about the impact on clinical quality and potential deficits. Despite progress in reducing waiting times, the pressure of maintaining high standards of care remains, especially during winter. Funding is increasing slightly above inflation, but the NHS must become more efficient to meet the demands of an aging population. A survey of 29 NHS finance directors highlights the current strain, raising concerns about the NHS's ability to handle upcoming health reforms.

What is the main concern of NHS finance directors regarding meeting productivity targets?

• Potential harm to clinical quality

• Increased patient numbers

• Lack of government support

• Shortage of medical staff

What has been a significant achievement of the NHS in the past decade?

• Expanding healthcare coverage

• Increasing the number of hospitals

• Improving care quality and reducing waiting times

• Reducing healthcare costs

What is expected to test the NHS's ability to maintain care standards?

• Technological advancements

• New healthcare policies

• Winter pressures

• Summer heatwaves

What is the NHS required to do to meet the demands of an aging population?

• Increase healthcare funding

• Become more efficient

• Build new facilities

• Hire more staff

What does the Department of Health believe about the NHS's ability to meet future challenges?

• It should reduce services

• It will require significant reforms

• It can meet the challenges

• It needs more funding