The year 2023 was marked by significant challenges in healthcare, with headlines dominated by industrial action, staff shortages, and burnout. A decade of underinvestment left the NHS in a precarious state. Looking ahead to 2024, there are five healthcare trends that may shape headlines in the coming year.
- General Election Anticipation:
- 2024 is expected to be an election year in the UK, with Prime Minister Rishi Sunak hinting at a later election in the second half of the year.
- The NHS is anticipated to be a prominent election issue, with polling consistently ranking it among the top public concerns.
- Election priorities are predicted to focus on staffing, finance, general practice, social care, and access to treatment and diagnosis.
- Public Satisfaction with the NHS:
- Public satisfaction with the NHS will be a crucial factor in the upcoming election, following a decline to 29%, the lowest level since 1983.
- Issues contributing to dissatisfaction include waiting times, staff shortages, and perceived underfunding.
- Public perceptions of healthcare services will likely influence voters’ decisions.
- Staff Shortages and Industrial Action:
- Staff shortages, a major factor in public dissatisfaction, continue to be a pressing issue, exacerbated by ongoing industrial action.
- The NHS is facing its longest period of strike action, raising concerns about winter pressures and strained services.
- Public support for strikes has been reported, though ongoing disruption may test this support.
- Rise in Artificial Intelligence (AI):
- The AI healthcare market is projected to grow significantly, reaching $187 billion by 2030.
- AI is anticipated to play a crucial role in addressing staff shortages, with virtual assistants and chatbots aiding clinicians in diagnosis and treatment.
- Government investment of £100 million aims to deploy AI for breakthroughs in treatments, such as dementia or cancer vaccines.
- Prevention and Wellness Focus:
- Healthcare providers are expected to shift towards proactive approaches, emphasising exercise, wellness, and immunisations.
- Technological advances, including AI and wearable tech, will enable early warning and intervention.
- The government’s framework for tackling long-term conditions acknowledges the importance of prevention but may require more detailed plans and investment.