Improving Efficiency in the UK Medical Profession: The Need for a Faster System

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The discussion highlights significant frustrations with healthcare systems in the UK and other countries. In the UK, there are long waiting times for non-critical cases, leading to feelings of being at the mercy of the system. Despite substantial investment in NHS IT systems, inefficiencies persist, such as difficulties in booking appointments. Comparatively, the Netherlands also faces lengthy waiting lists for minor treatments, while South Germany offers quicker access to care. The conversation touches on the impact of socialized medicine on healthcare delivery, suggesting that it may lead to inefficiencies and a lack of incentive for faster treatment. The complexities of GP practices and the pressure to meet contractual targets further exacerbate the situation, resulting in increased bureaucracy and longer wait times for patients. The discussion also clarifies that emergency care in the US is provided regardless of insurance status, contrasting with the experiences shared in the UK and other European countries.
wolram
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In the UK it is so slow, bless them they are so over worked ,but i would have thought that non critical cases, where one could be returned to productive work would be an objective,
it seems not be the case ,it seems once you are in the system you are at their mercy, no matter how long it takes, yes this is a rant, but as i am one in the system i wish i could get out of it.
 
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But look on the bright side, after spending £20B on NHS It systems at least you can book your appointments online (well - if the system worked and your GP and hospital were cooperating you could).
 
In the US, if you don't have coverage, they'll leave you to die peacefully in the waiting room.
 
NeoDevin said:
In the US, if you don't have coverage, they'll leave you to die peacefully in the waiting room.
No, you get treated in the ER in the US, even if you can't pay.
 
wolram said:
In the UK it is so slow, bless them they are so over worked ,but i would have thought that non critical cases, where one could be returned to productive work would be an objective,
it seems not be the case ,it seems once you are in the system you are at their mercy, no matter how long it takes, yes this is a rant, but as i am one in the system i wish i could get out of it.

Tell me about it. The waiting lists in The Netherlands are extreme to get some 'minor'-non threatening things done. Half a year is nothing. I must say though, the situation is completely different in (south) Germany. You got a problem? Threatment in a few days at the most
 
Andre said:
You got a problem? Threatment in a few days at the most

And what do they threat you with? :biggrin:
 
wolram said:
In the UK it is so slow, bless them they are so over worked ,but i would have thought that non critical cases, where one could be returned to productive work would be an objective,
it seems not be the case ,it seems once you are in the system you are at their mercy, no matter how long it takes, yes this is a rant, but as i am one in the system i wish i could get out of it.

Doesn't socialized medicine take the profit out medical practice? If so, what is the stimulus to get you healthy faster?
 
Last edited:
Moonbear said:
And what do they threat you with? :biggrin:

Got me there :-p I'll never get used to the finesses in the English language where to put the completely insignificant 'h'. For instance in "were" or "where" or treat, threat, treath. too much for me. Anyway, when you go to the docter with a certain problem you may have to wait six month in the Netherlands, wereas (typo) in South Germany they ask if next week monday would be okay.
 
larkspur said:
Doesn't socialized medicine take the profit out medical practice?
No it makes all the doctors overpaid civil servants, in addition almost all surgeons and specialists operate a private practice as well.
Recent 'improvements' have made it worse - most GPs practices are now businesses that provide local health care and contract services to local hospitals through an insanely complex series of rates and formulas.
This meant that the first doctors to do this could jump the waiting list queues for their patients as part of the insentive deal to setup as independant service providers. And once all GPS are independant then they can all jump the queue - which of course doesn't work.
So now you are back to the old system, except there is twice as much paperwork, everything takes longer and the doctors have very nice BMWs.

If so, what is the stimulus to get you healthy faster?
The only stimulus now is to hit the targets imposed by the contract.
As an example, my doctor abandoned apointments - just turn up and we will see you in turn. Since the number of people the doctor can see per shift is fixed and since you typically end up waiting an hour anyway - why not wait an hour to see them today instead of watiing an hour in 3 days time.
This was stopped because it meant they fell behind on their appointments target and so would lose their service provider contract.
 

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