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24 June 2008
Tory green paper promises welcome reduction in top-down targets - but patient dignity is paramount, says Help the Aged
Responding to the publication today of the Conservative Party's policy paper on health entitled 'Outcomes, not targets', Kate Jopling, Head of Public Affairs at Help the Aged comments: 'It's good to see the Conservatives' new consultation paper set out their plans for the NHS - and the emphasis on reducing top-down targets is to be welcomed.
'An emphasis on performance assessment based on quality and outcomes should refocus services towards individual needs and help to maintain the dignity of older patients. However, no one should under-estimate the task - the system is huge and complex.
'Further, it is important that in the drive to reduce bureaucratic direction, this does not lead to Government washing its hands of what happens at the local level. There needs to be central oversight and guidance, in particular to ensure that groups whose voices are often not heard are not marginalised in mainstream delivery.'
Notes to Editors:
The Conservative Party paper has been published as part of their policy development process. Entitled 'Delivering some of the best health in Europe - outcomes not targets.' The paper is available at www.conservatives.com
Help the Aged is the charity fighting to free disadvantaged older people in the UK and overseas from poverty, isolation, neglect and ageism. It campaigns to raise public awareness of the issues affecting older people and to bring about policy change. The Charity delivers a range of services: information and advice, home support and community living, including international development work. These are supported by its paid-for services and fundraising activities - which aim to increase funding in the future to respond to the growing unmet needs of disadvantaged older people. Help the Aged also funds vital research into the health issues and experiences of older people to improve the quality of later life.
Help the Aged urgently needs donations and support to help it in the increasingly challenging fight to free disadvantaged older people from poverty, isolation and neglect. Visit www.helptheaged.org.uk or call 0207 239 1982.
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