The Changing Face of Healthcare

Within our modern society, it is easy to forget the huge improvements the NHS has seen over the years. Our health care system, when in comparison to those around the world, is continuously developing, particularly through the progression of technology. It is fascinating to see not only the differences between the health care system of previous years and the current one, but the contrasts to those globally.

As the taboo surrounding mental health illnesses diminishes, the need for more trained staff in that field of expertise is undoubtedly increased. An attitude of dismissal towards serious psychological conditions is no longer acceptable, and so a larger training of those qualified to help and support patients is under way- a powerful opposition to the view of mental well-being from previous centuries. Certain positions within the health care system focus on mental health and physical health, with placements for occupational therapy jobs becoming progressively necessary- both part-time and full-time.

Interestingly, the impressive abilities of modern technology and hospital equipment, along with more knowledge surrounding general health care and hygiene, has created an ageing population, most prominently across western countries. This in itself brings about complications to the normal order of the NHS; there is a distinctly increased demand for geriatric doctors, nurses and carers. Simultaneously, the need for hospital equipment suited for elderly patients is necessary, therefore more suppliers are required.

The NHS is, undoubtedly, a stressful career. But over the years the support and assistance they give to their staff has certainly contributed to the benefits of working there. Childcare support is available in hospitals nation-wide, with nurseries and more flexible working options obtainable. It is this additional support and fundamental caring for the staff within the NHS that shows the differences between this UK health care system, and those around the world.

Forefront of the UK medical news however, is the tension between privatisation and the NHS system itself. The argument for both sides contains moral and ethical issues, as well as the problem of money and funding. Some people view the NHS as simply implausible what with our ageing population, whereas other’s see the importance of having free health-care for the country. Although there are many different and complicated questions surrounding these two approaches to health care, it is imperative to consider the impact of alternative systems on not only society now and presently, but for the future generations too.