The new diagnostic, surgical and therapeutic advances mean that more can be done for more people. Every year there are 2 million outpatient appointments, 1.5 million casualty attendances and 500,000 in patients. The population is increasing. And people are living longer. Demand is outstripping supply in a number of areas particularly in elective procedures.
Emergencies have to take priority when there are lack of resources.
There is need for adjustment rather than panic and demolition. The scapegoating in the recent article is unhelpful and shows little insight. Modern hospital medicine is based on multidisciplinary teams. All members must be present for optimal effectiveness. Recruitment is a problem at present.