Responding to a study from the Commonwealth Fund which reveals that the NHS has moved from the top position of leading health care system in the world to fourth place, BMA deputy chair Dr David Wrigley said:

 “The fact that the NHS has lost its place as the best health system in the world and is now in fourth place highlights the enormous impact that the pandemic has on the overall health service.

 “This is absolutely no reflection on the tremendous efforts of all healthcare staff in the past year but rather a clear sign of the lack of investment by the Government and failure to adequately resource the NHS in its greatest hour of need.

 “Rather than focusing on rushing through the reorganisation of our health service through the NHS bill – the wrong bill at the wrong time - the Government needs to redirect its attention to tackling the largest ever backlog of care and ensuring that patients are getting what they need. The Government must not allow this downward trajectory to continue.”

Notes to editors

The BMA is a professional association and trade union representing and negotiating on behalf of all doctors in the UK. A leading voice advocating for outstanding health care and a healthy population. An association providing members with excellent individual services and support throughout their lives.