Department of Health and Social Care

The Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC) is the UK government department responsible for national health policy and social care. Recent news highlights several challenges and criticisms facing the DHSC. A report excoriates the DHSC and NHS England for persistent medical negligence within the NHS, costing billions annually despite decades of warnings. A funding dispute arose when the DHSC proposed cutting funding for physical education in schools, later reversing the decision. The DHSC is also under scrutiny regarding Reform UK's private health insurance policy and its potential cost to the country. Conversely, the department is implementing plans to improve cancer care in rural and coastal areas, aiming to address inequalities in access and treatment. Initiatives like 'Jess's rule' are being promoted to improve GP diagnoses. The DHSC is also facing criticism over corridor care in the NHS, with reports of patient deaths and staff distress due to overcrowding.